What is the role of a health insurance marketplace navigator, and is their service free to consumers?

Health insurance marketplace navigators are trained and certified professionals funded by federal grants whose role is to provide free, unbiased assistance to consumers exploring health coverage options through the ACA marketplace. Unlike insurance brokers (who earn commissions and have financial incentives to recommend certain plans), navigators have no financial stake in which plan you choose. They can help you compare plans, understand subsidies, complete applications, and enroll in coverage. Navigators are available in all states using HealthCare.gov as well as in states operating their own marketplace platforms.