Kivulink
Straight answers, no jargon.
How independent agencies work, what it costs (nothing), and the situations we handle every week — in 10 languages.
Common questions from newcomers
Insurance and tax answers for immigrants and new Americans — in Texas and beyond.
Yes. Anyone lawfully present in the U.S. can buy a Marketplace health plan. Financial help depends on your immigration status and income, and the rules changed in 2026 — so ask us to check your exact situation before you enroll.
Maybe. Since January 2026, the extra pandemic-era help has ended, and you now need income above the federal poverty level to get premium help — even during Medicaid's 5-year waiting period. A quick, free eligibility check tells you what you qualify for now.
Starting with 2027 plans, premium help is limited to citizens, green card holders, Cuban and Haitian entrants, and COFA residents. Refugees, asylees, and TPS holders lose premium help. Talk to us before fall 2026 enrollment so we can plan your options together.
Often, yes. Many auto, renters, and life carriers accept an ITIN instead of an SSN. Marketplace health plans require an eligible immigration status, not always an SSN. Our team will tell you exactly which documents your case needs.
Yes, often. Several carriers we work with insure drivers with a foreign license or an international permit, though prices vary. Bring your license and vehicle information, and we will find the carriers that accept your situation.
Texas requires liability coverage of at least $30,000 per injured person, $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage (“30/60/25”). Lenders usually require full coverage on financed cars. We compare carriers so you meet the law without overpaying.
Under current federal rules, Marketplace subsidies are generally not counted in a public charge decision. Immigration rules can change, so if you have a pending case, confirm with an immigration attorney. We prepare forms but do not give legal advice.
An ITIN is a tax ID number for people who are not eligible for an SSN. If you earn income in the U.S., you generally must file taxes — an ITIN makes that possible. We prepare ITIN applications (Form W-7) and file your return.
Usually, yes. Many carriers offer life insurance to green card holders and to other residents with an ITIN, a U.S. address, and U.S. income. Options vary by carrier and visa status; we shop several carriers and explain every policy before you sign.
You have 60 days from losing coverage to enroll in a Marketplace plan — this is a Special Enrollment Period. Call us the week it happens, not the month after. We check your subsidies and enroll you, at no extra cost.
Yes. Family members who qualify can enroll even if others in the household do not, and you only provide immigration documents for the people applying. Every family is different — our team reviews your case and explains your options clearly.
No. Carriers pay independent agents directly, so you pay the same premium as going to the company yourself — with an advisor who compares the market for you, in your language, at no extra cost.
Coverage watch — what is changing
The enhanced credits expired and income limits are back, so many households' costs changed this year. A quick re-check tells you exactly what you qualify for now.
From 2027 plans, only citizens, green card holders, Cuban/Haitian entrants, and COFA residents can get premium help. If this may affect you, talk to us before fall 2026 enrollment.
The yearly window to start or change Marketplace health plans. Outside these dates you need a qualifying life event to enroll.
Losing Medicaid or job coverage opens a 60-day Special Enrollment Period. Do not wait — the window closes fast.
Educational information only — not legal or tax advice. Rules change and depend on your situation. Talk to a licensed advisor about your case.
The full FAQ.
No. Insurance carriers pay independent agents directly, so you pay the same premium you would pay going to the carrier yourself — with the advantage of an advisor who compares the whole market for you. For Medicare plans specifically, carriers pay our fee and there is no extra cost to you.
No. Kivulink is fully independent and appointed with more than 50 national and specialty carriers across auto, home, commercial, life, health, and Medicare. We recommend the policy that fits your situation — not the one that pays the highest commission.
Yes — policy reviews are free. Our team audits existing coverage for gaps, overpriced premiums, and badly structured products, and we have corrected policies that were costing clients hundreds of dollars a month with little to show for it.
Yes. We prepare returns for ITIN filers, self-employed and 1099 workers, and mixed-status households, including ACA subsidy reconciliation on Form 8962. If you need an ITIN, we can help you apply.
Kivulink is licensed in 10 states — Texas, Tennessee, Arizona, Colorado, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin. Our office is in Houston, TX, and we serve clients remotely across all licensed states.