Houtz Insurance LLC

11/21/2025

Grateful to celebrate another year with my amazing husband, Will. We marked our anniversary perfectly with dinner at Craft 2700 (that Bloody Mary was friggin’ amazing) and then an incredible night at Reverb in Reading seeing Whitechapel. Couldn’t ask for a better mix of good food, great music, and the best company. Here’s to many more years of love, laughter, and loud guitars. ❤️

11/20/2025

It’s that time of year again for group health plan renewals, and a quick reminder: most group health insurance plans see an average increase of around 7% each year.

If your plan renews on January 1, all renewals and updates need to be completed by December 15. Now is the perfect time to review your current plan, compare options, and make sure you’re still getting the best value for your business and your employees.

At Houtz Insurance, we can help you evaluate your renewal, explore cost-saving strategies, and find a plan that fits your team’s needs. Reach out today so your coverage is ready to go for the new year.

11/17/2025

The government shutdown may be over, but one key issue remains unresolved: the ACA enhanced subsidies, which help millions of Americans afford their health insurance, were not extended.

As open enrollment continues, many ACA enrollees are seeing how much their premiums could rise without those subsidies. In some cases, costs could double or even triple. Lawmakers could still vote in December to reinstate them, but even if they do, the increases have already influenced next year’s premiums.

If Congress does not act, experts warn that millions could lose coverage and become uninsured, while others may face higher out-of-pocket costs or need to switch plans.

If you are reviewing your 2026 coverage, now is the time to explore your options and make sure you have the protection you need. Our team can help you navigate these changes and find a plan that fits your budget.

11/14/2025

The Jerseyman Unmasking event at The Ballroom at the Ben last night was everything.

I walked in thinking I’d mingle… and ended up seeing half my entire network in one room. 😂
It was one of those nights where every corner had someone you actually want to talk to — which is rare and worth celebrating.

Good energy, good conversations, and honestly, good people.
Grateful for the connections that make these events more fun than formal. 💛✨

Already ready for the next one.

11/13/2025

NOW is the time to take a closer look at your company’s health benefits. 🌟

If you’re not sure your employees have the best coverage or if you feel like you’re paying too much, open enrollment is the perfect opportunity to review your options.

At Houtz Insurance, we help businesses design benefit plans that keep employees happy and costs under control. We’ll walk you through your choices, compare plans, and make sure you’re getting the best value for your investment.

Don’t wait! Open enrollment is your window to make the smart changes that can make a big difference for your team and your business.

11/10/2025

Open Enrollment is Here, but So Are Rising Costs! 📢

Open enrollment through the Affordable Care Act is happening now, but health insurance costs could skyrocket if Congress doesn’t act soon. Federal subsidies that help lower monthly premiums for millions are set to expire—and lawmakers remain at a stalemate amid the ongoing government shutdown.

Democrats want those subsidies extended for most enrollees who rely on them, while Republicans say they’ll negotiate after a spending bill is passed. Meanwhile, ACA insurers are already projecting average premium increases of about 26% next year, meaning many families could see their monthly costs nearly double. Without subsidies, that increase could be even higher.

For many families, that could mean difficult choices ahead about how to afford coverage. Stay informed — and if you have questions about your plan or coverage options, our team is here to help you navigate them. 💬

11/06/2025

What Is a Health Insurance Death Spiral? 📉

A health insurance death spiral occurs when rising premiums lead to a decline in healthier individuals enrolling in a plan. As healthier people leave, the risk pool becomes sicker, which drives costs even higher. This creates a vicious cycle—higher costs push more healthy individuals out, resulting in even higher premiums for those who remain.

Here’s how it works:
🔹 Higher Premiums: Insurers raise premiums to cover increasing healthcare costs.
🔹 Healthier Individuals Leave: Many healthier members opt out, seeking more affordable options elsewhere or paying out of pocket.
🔹 Sicker Population Remains: The remaining enrollees are generally older or have more health issues, increasing overall costs.
🔹 Worsening Cycle: Insurers must raise premiums again, making the situation even worse.

Understanding this concept is crucial as it highlights the importance of maintaining a balanced risk pool in health insurance.

Let’s advocate for policies that support affordable coverage for all, ensuring that everyone has access to the care they need. Your voice matters in shaping a healthier future!

11/03/2025

With open enrollment now underway, the future of the Affordable Care Act is at risk. If Congress doesn’t extend crucial health care subsidies, millions could face skyrocketing premiums, pushing younger, healthier individuals to drop their coverage.

This could lead to a "death spiral," where only the sickest remain insured, driving costs even higher and threatening the stability of the health insurance market.

Read more at https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2025/10/26/nx-s1-5577940/health-insurance-government-shutdown-aca-open-enrollment-death-spiral

Young and healthy people who get Affordable Care Act health insurance are thinking about dropping coverage next year, as the government remains shutdown over health care tax credits.

10/31/2025

Happy Halloween! 👻 Don’t let health insurance give you a fright! Let Houtz Insurance help you find the coverage that suits your needs. We’ll make it a treat, not a trick! 🍭

10/28/2025

As Congress debates funding, the expiration of ACA tax credits looms, impacting millions who rely on affordable health coverage. Without action, many could see their premiums double, making necessary treatments unaffordable.

With open enrollment starting November 1, now is the time to understand how potential changes could affect your health coverage. We encourage everyone to stay informed and advocate for continued support for these essential subsidies. Your health matters!

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/health-care-subsidies-are-at-the-heart-of-the-shutdown-fight-heres-who-loses-if-they-expire

Millions of Americans with Affordable Care Act marketplace health insurance will face higher costs next year if Congress doesn't extend enhanced premium tax credits that have made the plans more affordable.

10/24/2025

Anyone else struggling with cat assistance on a work from home Friday?

10/23/2025

Stay Healthy This Flu Season! 🛡️

It’s essential to take proactive steps to protect yourself and those around you. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

❤️ Get Your Flu Shot: The best defense is a good offense! Vaccinate annually to protect yourself and others.
❤️ Wash Your Hands Regularly: Frequent handwashing (at least 20 seconds) helps reduce the spread of germs. Use hand sanitizer when soap isn’t handy.
❤️ Stay Hydrated: Keep your immune system in top shape by drinking plenty of fluids, especially water and herbal teas.
❤️ Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of restorative sleep each night to help your body recover and bolster its defenses.
❤️ Manage Stress: Engage in stress-reducing activities, like yoga or meditation, to support your immune health.
❤️ Consider Supplements: Consult your healthcare provider about vitamins and supplements, like vitamin C and zinc, that may boost your immunity.

By following these tips, you can help keep yourself and your community healthy this flu season!