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The simple answer is that under the health law's individual mandate, American must have insurance by March 31. But unfortunately it's not that straightforward.

The nonprofit "consumer oriented and operated plans," or co-ops, are run by their members and were created under the federal health law to enhance competition on the exchanges.

A contract worker looks for more consistent coverage.

Brokers and insurers can sell their traditional products, but they may also sell some plans available on the marketplaces that offer subsidies for customers.

Consumers should start now thinking about their options and should weigh the total costs, not just premiums, as well as the network of doctors and hospitals associated with each plan.

Health insurance is a complicated product. Understanding how the plans work and picking one that suits someone's needs will take time.

A move to a different area qualifies for a "special enrollment period" to buy a new policy.

Consumer columnist answers questions about getting insurance for children under the health law.

Currently many plans sold on the individual market do not provide maternity coverage. But that will change under the health law.

The health law's new online insurance marketplaces will create new opportunities for people who lose their jobs and their employer-based health coverage, but consumer advocates worry they may not realize this and lock themselves into pricier coverage than they need.

The price of premiums isn't the only expense to consider when evaluating policies from the insurance marketplace.

Consumer columnist says he likely can, but the bigger question is whether he will qualify for subsidies to help defray costs.

Even the people trained to help consumers navigate the new online marketplaces may not have all the answers.

Consumer columnist offers caution about the financial implications of that switch.