### Human:\nwe have good insurance through my husband's job. our premium is going up 20% this year. . should we consider the state health insurance marketplaces as an alternative option? we're not sure that we're eligible.\n\n### Assistant: you can buy a plan through the marketplace but if your employer's plan is considered affordable you won't qualify for a tax credit to help pay for coverage. affordable is employer-based insurance that does not cost more than 9. 5% of your annual income and pays for 60% of the medical care covered by your health plan. generally employer-based insurance is a better deal than buying it on your own in large part because you don't pay taxes on those benefits.