Open Enrollment is Almost Here – How to Prepare

October 20, 2025

Open Enrollment is almost here and whether you’re renewing your current ACA plan or exploring new options, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are a few key things to consider before the window opens:

• Review Your Current Coverage

Take a moment to look over your current health plan. Are your doctors still in-network? Have your prescriptions changed? Are you satisfied with your monthly premium and out-of-pocket costs? Knowing what’s working (and what’s not) helps us make smarter choices together. Whether or not I am your agent – I would love to help you review your coverage.

• Consider Any Life Changes

Did your household size change? A new baby, a child turning 26, recent move or change in marital status can all affect your eligibility and plan options. Let’s make sure your coverage reflects your current needs.

• Update Your Income

If you are on an ACA or ICHRA plan Income changes, big or small, can impact your subsidy and monthly premium. Be ready to share your updated income so we can calculate your savings accurately and avoid surprises later.

• Think About Your Health Needs

Do you anticipate more doctor visits, specialist care, or new prescriptions in the coming year? Let’s factor that in when choosing a plan that fits your lifestyle and budget.

• Be Ready to Connect

If you are a current client, I’ll be reaching out soon to help you re-enroll. To get started, I’ll need you to answer a few quick questions. The sooner we connect, the smoother the process will be and the better chance we have of securing the best plan for you.

Open Enrollment doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little prep and the right guidance, you’ll be ready to make confident, informed decisions. I’m here to walk you through every step.

If you have questions, feel free to call me at (803) 261-4186. Let’s make this your easiest enrollment yet!

⚡ Lightning Safety Awareness Week: June 22–28, 2025⚡

June 22, 2025

“When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors” isn’t just a catchy phrase—it’s a lifesaving reminder.

Each year, lightning strikes the United States about 25 million times, and while fatalities have decreased from around 55 to fewer than 30 annually, hundreds of people are still seriously injured. Many of these injuries go unreported, and most occur during outdoor activities that could have been paused or relocated with a little planning.

Why Lightning Awareness Still Matters

Lightning is one of nature’s most fascinating phenomena—but also one of its most dangerous. It can strike from over 15 miles away, travel through plumbing and wiring, and hit the same place more than once (yes, the Empire State Building gets struck about 23 times a year). Despite its power, lightning is often underestimated, especially during summer when outdoor fun is in full swing. That’s why Lightning Safety Awareness Week, launched in 2001 by the National Weather Service, continues to play a vital role in public education. The goal? To reduce injuries and fatalities by helping people understand the risks and take action when storms threaten.

Know the Signs, Make a Plan

Here are some key safety tips to share with your family, friends, and community:

• If you hear thunder, go indoors. You’re close enough to be struck.
• Avoid water, plumbing, and electronics during a storm—even inside.
• Stay away from trees, open fields, and tall objects.
• Wait 30 minutes after the last thunderclap before resuming outdoor activities.
• Have a shelter plan for outdoor events, sports, or travel.

Lightning Myths—Busted

• Myth: Lightning never strikes the same place twice.
  Truth: It absolutely does. Tall structures like skyscrapers and towers are frequent targets.
• Myth: Rubber soles protect you.
  Truth: They don’t. It’s the shelter that matters, not your shoes.
• Myth: If it’s not raining, you’re safe.
  Truth: Lightning can strike miles ahead of a storm.

How You Can Help

• Share lightning safety tips on social media.
• Talk to kids about what to do if they’re caught outside.
• Encourage local organizations to have a storm safety plan.
• Follow your local National Weather Service office for daily lightning facts and graphics during the week.

Let’s Stay Safe Together

Whether you’re planning a picnic or just walking the dog, having a lightning safety plan can save lives. Share this post and help make our community storm-smart.

The Marketplace Circle of Champions recognizes Kristin Simpson with Atlantic Insurance & Investments for more than 100 enrollments

April 23, 2025

April 23, 2025

Columbia, SC – Kristin Simpson with Atlantic Insurance & Investments has been honored by the Health Insurance Marketplace® as an Elite member in the 2025 Marketplace Circle of Champions.

This Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) award is a result of Kristin’s hard work, expertise, and service in enrolling more than 100 consumers in qualified coverage during this Open Enrollment Period.

“We thank Kristin for her dedication to providing exceptional service and helping consumers access coverage,” said Peter Nelson, Deputy Administrator & Director at CMS. “Agents and brokers are important partners to CMS in our shared goal of helping expand access to coverage across the nation.”

Consumers who would like assistance applying for or enrolling in Marketplace coverage,
or have questions about their existing coverage, can contact Kristin at 803.261.4186.

What is the Marketplace Circle of Champions?

CMS created the Marketplace Circle of Champions program to commemorate the hard work and commitment of Marketplace-registered agents and brokers throughout America. This award recognizes agents and brokers who have actively enrolled 20 or more consumers, and Elite status recognizes agents and brokers who have actively enrolled 100 to 499 consumers. Each year, thousands of agents and brokers reach the Marketplace Circle of Champions.

Does my credit affect how much I pay for insurance?

May 16, 2024

Credit can affect your insurance rate in a few different ways. Insurance companies may use your credit score as one of the factors to determine your risk profile as a policyholder. Generally, individuals with higher credit scores are seen as more financially responsible and are therefore considered lower risk to insure. This can result in lower insurance premiums for those with good credit.

On the other hand, individuals with lower credit scores may be seen as higher risk and may be charged higher premiums as a result. Insurers believe that those with lower credit scores are more likely to file insurance claims, leading to increased costs for the insurance company.

It’s important to note that the use of credit scores in insurance pricing varies by state and insurance company, as not all states allow insurers to use credit information when setting rates. Additionally, insurance companies typically consider a variety of factors when determining rates, so your credit score is just one piece of the puzzle.

If you have any additional questions about how your credit rate factors your premium, give us a call.

Maximize Your Benefits in 2024 with Health Savings Accounts(HSA)

January 16, 2024

Are you ready to take control of your healthcare expenses in 2024?

Discover the power of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and how they can benefit you and your family.

What is a HSA?

• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are tax-advantaged savings accounts designed to help you save for medical expenses.
• Contributions to your HSA are tax-deductible, reducing your taxable income.
• Funds in your HSA can be invested and grow tax-free.
• Withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free.

Benefits of HSA in 2024

• Increased Contribution Limits: In 2024, individuals can contribute up to $3,750, while families can contribute up to $7,500, providing more savings potential.
• Triple Tax Benefits: Enjoy tax deductions on contributions, tax-free growth, and tax-free withdrawals for qualified medical expenses.
• Portability: Your HSA account stays with you, even if you change jobs or health insurance plans.
• Retirement Savings: HSA funds can be used for non-medical expenses after age 65, making it a valuable retirement savings tool.
• Control and Flexibility: You decide how to spend your HSA funds, giving you control over your healthcare choices.

How to Maximize Your HSA

• Contribute Regularly: Set up automatic contributions to ensure your HSA grows over time.
• Invest Wisely: Consider investing HSA funds for potential long-term growth.
• Keep Records: Maintain records of all qualified medical expenses for tax purposes.
• Plan for Retirement: Use your HSA as a retirement savings vehicle by contributing consistently.

Qualified Medical Expenses

• Doctor’s visits
• Prescription medications
• Dental and vision care
• Hospital stays
• Laboratory fees
• Preventive care
• And more!

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Invest in your health and financial future with an HSA. Start maximizing your 2024 HSA benefits today!

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Call or Text: (803) 261-4186

Email: kristin@atlantic-ii.com

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2024 Marketplace Champion 

January 9, 2024

I’m honored to announce I’ve achieved national recognition as a #MarketplaceChampion from CMS for the 2024 Marketplace Circle of Champions. I was awarded Elite status after helping more than 100 consumers enroll in Marketplace coverage during Open Enrollment! This is my 5th year reaching Circle of Champions and 4th year reaching ELITE status!

Are you taking advantage of Blue Rewards?

September 25, 2023

Blue Rewards pays you for taking certain healthy actions as a way to incentivize you to take care of yourself.

2023 Blue Rewards

• Get a flu shot = $60
• Complete an annual wellness exam (physical) = $60
• Complete a telehealth visit (using BlueCare on Demand) = $30

So you can earn a total of $150 each year per person. Each covered member of your family can earn rewards, so a family of 4 could earn $600 via Blue Rewards each year.

How to Access Blue Rewards &

Get Started

Members can use the link below to activate their Blue Rewards wellness account.

The subscriber will be asked to enter their email address, member ID number and create a password.

Once registration has been completed and a qualifying wellness activity has been completed, a Blue Rewards Visa® card is mailed to the subscriber.

Reward dollars are added to the Blue Rewards Visa® card as each member’s qualifying activities are completed.

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