Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Brokers are different from Assisters because they can provide advice on plan selection, and can perform activities on behalf of their clients as part of their professional license and training. Brokers are paid by insurance companies whereas Assisters are paid by grants from DC Health Link. There is no cost to use a Broker or an Assister, and using one will not impact the cost of your health plan.

Broker
Brokers are licensed under District law to sell health insurance through DC Health Link to individuals, families and small businesses. Brokers have been trained by DC Health Link, can recommend plans or plan types, and perform activities on behalf of their clients as part of their professional licensing and training.

Assister
Assisters provide in-person assistance to individuals, families, and small businesses shopping for health plans through DC Health Link. Assisters have been trained by DC Health Link and are required to provide fair and impartial information to help with financial assistance eligibility, and facilitate enrollment in health plans. When a customer needs a recommendation for selecting a plan or additional expertise on small group coverage, Assisters refer customers to a Broker for assistance.