Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about health, Medicare, life, and business insurance in South Carolina.
General
No. As an independent insurance broker, we are compensated by the insurance carriers — not by you. Our consultations, plan comparisons, and enrollment assistance are always free.
We are licensed in South Carolina and primarily serve the Midlands region — Columbia, Lexington, Irmo, West Columbia, Chapin, and surrounding communities. We also assist clients remotely throughout the state.
A captive agent works for one insurance company and can only sell that company's products. An independent agent like Murdock Insurance Group represents dozens of carriers, so we can compare options across the entire market and recommend the plan that best fits your needs.
- The easiest way is to talk to a broker on our website or call us. We will ask a few questions about your situation and walk you through your options.
Health Insurance
- The ACA Open Enrollment Period typically runs from November 1 through December 15 each year. Outside of that window, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you experience a qualifying life event such as losing job-based coverage, getting married, or having a baby. Learn more about ACA marketplace plans.
- Subsidies are based on your household income and family size. Many South Carolinians qualify for premium tax credits that significantly reduce monthly costs. We can run a subsidy estimate for you at no charge — talk to a broker to get started.
ACA plans meet all Affordable Care Act requirements, including coverage for pre-existing conditions and essential health benefits. Short-term plans are more affordable but offer limited benefits and do not cover pre-existing conditions. They are best suited for temporary gaps in coverage.
- Yes. Self-employed individuals can enroll in ACA marketplace plans, and many qualify for subsidies. We help freelancers and 1099 workers find the most cost-effective coverage.
Medicare
- Your Initial Enrollment Period begins 3 months before the month you turn 65 and ends 3 months after. Enrolling during this window ensures coverage starts on time and avoids late enrollment penalties. Learn more about Medicare enrollment.
- Medicare Advantage (Part C) is a private plan that bundles Parts A, B, and often D with extras like dental and vision, but requires network use. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) fills gaps in Original Medicare and lets you see any Medicare-accepting provider nationwide. The best choice depends on your health needs and preferences.
- If you have Original Medicare with a Medigap supplement, you typically need a standalone Part D plan for prescription drug coverage. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, drug coverage is usually included. We can help you compare Part D formularies and costs.
- Yes. Late enrollment in Part B and Part D can result in permanent premium surcharges. There are exceptions if you have qualifying employer coverage. Contact us to review your specific situation and avoid penalties.
Life Insurance
- Term life insurance covers you for a set period (10, 20, or 30 years) and is the most affordable option. Whole life insurance provides permanent coverage and builds cash value over time but costs more. The right choice depends on your goals and budget.
- A common guideline is 10 to 15 times your annual income, but the right amount depends on your debts, dependents, future expenses (like college tuition), and existing savings. We can help you calculate a number that makes sense for your family — learn more.
Yes. Many carriers offer policies for people with pre-existing conditions, though premiums may be higher. Some products, like guaranteed issue whole life, require no medical exam. We compare multiple carriers to find you the best available rate.
Business Coverage
- In South Carolina, businesses with as few as 2 eligible employees can offer group health insurance. Requirements vary by carrier, and alternative options like ICHRA allow even smaller businesses to help employees get covered.
- An Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement (ICHRA) lets employers reimburse employees tax-free for individual health insurance premiums. It gives employees flexibility to choose their own plan while the employer controls costs with a set monthly allowance.
- Yes. We help businesses build complete benefits packages including dental, vision, life, disability, and supplemental insurance. A strong benefits package helps you attract and retain quality employees.