Health insurance is expensive, but it's a necessity. So, it makes since that everybody wants to find affordable health insurance. There are lots of deals out there saying they're the best, but who can you trust?

Here are some tips to help empower you to make your own choices, and find the most affordable health insurance option for you.

Get Your Insurance From Your Company

Group insurance plans offered by your employers are always a better deal than individual plans. They buy their insurance in bulk, and those savings get passed on to you. It's a better deal for everyone, but it's especially good if you're over 40. At that age, individual plan premiums start to shoot up.

Double Up And Save

If you and your spouse both take out separate insurance plans, look into getting one together. Most companies offer coverage for spouses as well as employees. If you're getting your own insurance, look into a family plan.

Tell The Truth

The biggest factor in determining your rates is your own health. You may imagine that telling a little white lie might save you money on your health insurance, but you'd be wrong. They are checking your records and they'll find out if you've lied. Furthermore, they'll assume that the problem is worse than it looks, since you lied to cover it up.

Tell them everything in as much detail as possible. Look at it from their point of view; they need to know everything. Give them all the gruesome details and let them do the rest.

Unfortunately, You Have To Do Your Homework

This stuff isn't simple, but it has to be sorted out. You have to shop around and look at different plans to find the best one for you. I would suggest familiarizing yourself with the basics of healthcare so that you can make an informed decision. Don't be intimidated by all those figures and medical terms.

It's also really important to know and understand your particular needs. Even a great coverage plan may not be ideal for a particular individual.

Watch Out For Discount Plans

If you are getting your own individual insurance, you'll often see ads for discount insurance plans. These premiums will be way below those of the major comprehensive plans you see. Depending on your situation, discount medical insurance plans may be too good to be true.

These plans are very specialized to individuals with certain specific needs. Discount plans do not usually offer comprehensive medical insurance coverage. This means that you may have coverage for special situations, but not for the basics that all insurance covers, like doctors' visits. Many people use these deals as add-ons to their current plans.

Open A Health Savings Account

If you have an insurance policy with high deductibles, you have the option of starting a health savings plan. You can deposit money into this account to use for your out-of-pocket medical expenses, and it saves you money when tax time rolls around. You can open an HSA if you are self-employed, or if your employer's health insurance plan offers "fringe benefits."

Here's one tip to keep in mind: The most expensive option is not having insurance. Know what you're getting yourself into, read the fine print, ask questions and choose the right plan for you.