TRS Health Care Benefits Guide: #1 Savings Tip for Texas Teachers

June 28, 2024

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TRS Health Care Benefits Guide - Top Savings Tip for Texas Teachers - Revolt Healthcare Alliance

Are you a teacher in Texas and tired of the exorbitant family premiums for your TRS health care plan?

Good news!

There’s a better way for teachers to get quality affordable health insurance at a fraction of the cost!

Skip Right To The #1 Savings Tip-> 

Not From Texas? We’ve got a comprehensive Teachers Health Insurance Guide just for you!

Free Health Insurance Shopping Checklist by Revolt Healthcare Alliance Frisco, Texas

What kind of health insurance are Texas Teachers currently being offered?

TRS ActiveCare plans are health insurance options offered to Texas public school employees, including teachers and educational staff.

These plans are administered by the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) and aim to provide comprehensive health care coverage to meet the needs of educators.

TRS offers a variety of health plans to choose from, including:

  • TRS-ActiveCare Primary Summary:
    – Lowest premium of all three plans
    – Copays for doctor visits before you meet your deductible
    – Statewide network
    – Primary Care Provider (PCP) referrals required to see specialists
    – Not compatible with a Health Savings Account (HSA)
    – No out-of-network coverage
  • TRS-ActiveCare Primary+ Summary: 
    – Lower deductible than the HD and Primary plans
    – Copays for many services and drugs
    – Higher premium
    – Statewide network
    – PCP referrals required to see specialists
    – Not compatible with a Health Savings Account (HSA)
    – No out-of-network coverage
  • TRS-ActiveCare HD Summary: 
    – Compatible with a Health Savings Account (HSA)
    – Nationwide network with out-of-network coverage
    – no requirement for PCPs or referrals
    – Must meet your deductible before plan pays for non-preventive care

These options may not be the best fit for everyone.

If you already have health insurance coverage through a spouse or another source, you may not need additional coverage through TRS ActiveCare.

Additionally, if you prefer a higher level of flexibility in choosing health care providers outside of the TRS ActiveCare network, you might consider alternative options. It’s important to carefully evaluate your individual needs and circumstances before making a decision.

TRS Health Care Plan comparison chart- TRS ActiveCare 2023-2024

Average Cost of
A TRS Health Care Plan:

The cost of TRS ActiveCare plans vary based on factors such as individual or family enrollment, the region, and the specific plan chosen.

For example, in Region 10 the TRS ActiveCare Primary+ Individual + Family plan premium would be $1,941, whereas the Region 1 TRS ActiveCare Primary+ Individual + Family plan premium would be $1,571.

It’s crucial to review the available plans and associated premiums to determine the exact cost for your situation.

TRS ActiveCare Primary+ Family Plan Premium Comparison 23-24

Premiums can vary depending on the school district or educational institution, region, and overall health.

Why Might A Teacher Opt-Out Of Taking A TRS Health Care plan?

High Family Plan Premiums:

School districts typically contribute anywhere from 50%-100% to a teacher's coverage, but often do not contribute anything toward the family's portion, making TRS Health Plans expensive for families, because the teacher must have the difference deducted from their own paycheck.

Flexibility And Coverage:

Planning to move? Travel frequently? A private health insurance plan with nationwide coverage that can move with you may be a better long-term option.

Is your doctor in-network? What kind of health care needs does your family have? Understanding your families health needs can help you decide if a TRS Health Plan is right for you.

Elementary school teacher in Texas showing students a globe

#1 Savings Tip For
Texas Teachers:

While many districts will cover anywhere from 50% – 100% of the teacher’s health insurance premium, teachers are often surprised to discover that their district may not be contributing anything at all to their family’s premium–

– this can amount to hundreds of dollars being deducted from the teacher’s paycheck to cover their family’s monthly premium. 

For Example: Sarah, * a teacher in Carrollton, TX, was having nearly $1,300 deducted from her paycheck every month to cover the health insurance premiums for her family of five. 

#1 Savings Tip For Texas Teachers: Find out how much your district contributes to your dependent’s health insurance premiums.

What's The Alternative For A Teacher's Dependents?

When looking for alternatives to TRS ActiveCare plans, there’s only one real option: The customizable HSP Gold Plan Bundle.

Why? Here’s how this plan bundle compares to the TRS Active Care Plans:

  1. Nationwide PPO Network
  2. $0 copays
  3. $0 outpatient deductibles
  4. Lower Premiums: A family of 4 can get top tier coverage for just around $750 per month!

Here's What Sarah Did About Her Family's High Premiums...

Sarah and her husband Matt (a self employed financial advisor) shopped around on the marketplace and even looked at healthcare sharing ministry options before she met with one of our licensed agents.

Our expert was able to move her spouse and kids to their own private healthcare plan for only $521 per month! Their new plan comes with our nationwide PPO network, $0 copays, and $0 outpatient deductibles. 

Since Sarah’s district covered her premium at nearly 100%, she was able to stay on her district’s plan for only $19 a month! 

This simple switch saved her almost $760/month!

That’s a savings of over $9,000 per year! 

Bottom Line:
If you’re looking at paying a high premium this year, talk to one of our agents to find out if your district is contributing to your dependent’s health insurance coverage – if they aren’t you can easily save thousands of dollars a year by switching your dependents to their own plan. 

*Sarah’s name was changed to protect her privacy.

Teachers Cost Comparison Chart Showing Private Health Insurance Plan For Dependents is Less Expensive

Enhanced Benefits at a Lower Premium

Switching to private insurance didn’t mean sacrificing benefits for Sarah’s family.

Under their new plan, they enjoy exceptional advantages, including zero co-pays on doctor’s visits, zero deductibles (excluding overnight hospital stays), and access to an extensive PPO network of doctors across the country.

Furthermore, the plan offers 20 annual doctor visits per family member, resulting in a total of 80 visits per year for Matt and their children.

This improved coverage ensures their family’s health needs are met, while the lower premium acts as a “good-driver” discount for their health.

When asked how he felt about his new private health insurance, Matt said:

“I only wish we had discovered this alternative sooner! Being able to save over $700 a month and have better benefits, has been an absolute win-win for my family.
I highly recommend that Texas teachers take a moment to speak with a Revolt Healthcare Advisor to review their options! We have been so pleased with our savings and our coverage!”

What Do Teachers Need To Know To Decide If Switching Is Right For Them?

  • District Contributions: Is your school district contributing anything to your dependents premiums? School districts typically contribute anywhere from 50%-100% to a teacher’s coverage, but often do not contribute anything toward the family’s portion, making TRS Health plans expensive for families, because the teacher must have the difference deducted from their own paycheck. 
     
  • Conditions and Coverage: Private insurance options can offer greater flexibility, lower out-of-pocket expenses (like $0 copays, free telehealth, and $0 outpatient deductibles), and a wider range of benefits. Speak to one of our licensed health insurance agents to find the right fit for you and your family. 
     
  • Flexibility and Changes: You can cancel or remove participants from your TRS ActiveCare plan without cost or penalty. However, switching back to TRS plans or making changes outside of open enrollment periods may have limitations.
     

Texas teachers do not have to make this decision alone: Grab a free health insurance instant quote for your dependents to see how much you could be saving every month! One of our licensed agents will reach out to help you compare your options – completely free!

Top Frequently Asked Questions About TRS Health Plans:

Does my entire family need to be on the same plan?

No, it's not necessary for your entire family to be on the same plan. School districts in Texas contribute to teachers' coverage, making it relatively affordable for the teacher. However, most districts do not contribute anything toward the family's coverage, resulting in expensive TRS Health plans for the entire family, so it's important to consider placing dependents on their own plan for greater savings.

How much do school districts contribute to a teacher's health insurance coverage?

Districts commonly contribute either 50% or 100% of the teacher's coverage. It's important to note that most districts only contribute to the teacher's coverage, leaving the spouse and children essentially self-insured despite being listed on the Teachers Health plan.

Can I opt out of the health insurance plan provided by my school district?

Yes, in most school districts, you are not required to participate in the health insurance plan offered by your school district.

When should I consider switching from my TRS Health Care plan to a private insurance option?

If your district pays 50% of the teacher’s portion and that teacher does not have a spouse or kids, the teacher can typically get better benefits at the same price as their current Teachers Health plan. (benefits like: $0 co-pays, $0 deductibles, access to the largest PPO network in the US, and 20 preventative care doctors visits per year)

If your district pays 50% of the teacher’s portion and that teacher does have a spouse and/or children, the teacher can expect to get better benefits at the same price as their Teachers Health plan, and also save 40%-50% on their spouse and/or children’s healthcare costs by switching them to private health insurance. (again, these are benefits like: $0 co-pays, $0 deductibles, access to the largest PPO network in the US, and 20 preventative care doctors visits per year, per individual on the plan)

If your district pays 100% of the teacher’s portion (districts like Frisco and Plano) and nothing for the rest of the family, the teacher can keep themselves on their TRS Health plan and save 40%-50% off their monthly premiums by switching the rest of the family to a private health insurance option. Family members on private health insurance will typically experience the same enhanced benefits listed above. ($0 co-pays, $0 deductibles, access to the largest PPO network in the US, and 20 preventative care doctors visits per year)

Can I switch plans if I have a pre-existing condition?

In most cases, switching plans is possible even if you have a pre-existing condition. Talk to one of our licensed health insurance agents to explore your options and find the right fit for you.

Is there a cost or penalty to switch from a TRS Health Care plan to private insurance?

No, there is no cost or penalty for removing family members or canceling your TRS Health plan.

Can I cancel or remove participants from my Teachers Health Care plan anytime during the year?

Unfortunately, you can only switch during your district's open enrollment period, typically occurring during the summer months. Ensure that your new plan is active before canceling the TRS plan to ensure seamless coverage. Your Revolt Healthcare Advisor can assist in ensuring a smooth transition.

What if I want to return to a TRS Health Care Plan after having private insurance?

Private health insurance generally offers better benefits, a wider network of doctors, and lower monthly premiums. However, if circumstances change, you can return to a TRS plan during the next open enrollment period, usually held in the summer months. Qualifying life events may also allow changes outside the regular enrollment period.

Texas teachers no longer need to endure outrageously high premiums just to keep their families Insured

Affordable health insurance alternatives exist that offer better benefits at a lower price.

Join Sarah and numerous satisfied customers who have embraced the revolution in teachers’ health care coverage. Our licensed agents are available to help you understand your options and find the blend that’s right for your family.

Your health and well-being matter, so take the time to find the plan that is right for you!

Use the free checklist below to help you evaluate which health insurance option may be right for you!

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Free Health Insurance Shopping Checklist by Revolt Healthcare Alliance Frisco, Texas

Health Insurance Shopping
Guide + Checklist

Free Health Insurance Shopping Checklist by Revolt Healthcare Alliance Frisco, Texas

Health Insurance Shopping
Guide + Checklist