What is a mini-med (or limited benefit) plan? What are the risks and benefits of buying one?

A mini-med plan is a type of health insurance, but it comes with a low annual or lifetime dollar limit on benefits. Its sale to individuals is banned under the Affordable Care Act. If you believe you are enrolled in or are sold a mini-med plan, contact your state insurance department (see Resources, Where To Go for Help for a list of state Departments of Insurance). You can also call the federal toll free help line at 1-800-318-2596. (26 U.S.C. § 5000A; 45 C.F.R. § 148.220).