If you had 2015 Marketplace coverage, and did not renew or change your plan, you were most likely automatically enrolled into the same plan (or you were enrolled into a similar plan if your old plan was discontinued) for 2016, with coverage starting Jan 1. While this is somewhat advantageous because it means you will not experience a gap in coverage, there may be another plan available that works for you. We recommend you take a look at the plans available before the deadline. You may update your information and change plans until Jan. 31.
How do I know if I was automatically enrolled?
Log on to your Marketplace website account. If you do not see a 2016 application marked “status: complete” in your Marketplace account, you are not enrolled for coverage for 2016. You can also contact the Marketplace call center (1-800-318-2596) 24 hours a day, to find out your enrollment status. If you were not automatically enrolled, you can enroll in a 2016 plan through Jan. 31, with coverage starting March 1.
The Marketplace renewed my old plan, but I would like a new one, can I change my plan?
You can pick a new health insurance plan through the Marketplace website through Jan 31. If you do so, your new coverage will begin March 1. If you do not want to experience a gap in coverage, you will need to pay a premium on your current coverage until your new coverage is active.
I have not yet updated my financial assistance application on the Marketplace website, what should I do?
While healthcare.gov most likely automatically adjusted the amount of your premium tax credit for 2016, you should still update your information either online or over the phone. Updating your information will ensure that you will not have to repay the difference at the end of the year if your tax credit was not the correct the amount. Updating your financial information could also possibly result in cost savings for you and your family.
I need help with my health insurance application. Who can I contact?
The Caring Voice Coalition is a Certified Application Counselor Designated Organization (CDO) for Marketplace services under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). They have insurance specialists who can assist you with the application and renewal process. Additionally, the Marketplace website lists organizations that have navigators on staff in your local community. You can access that here. Always feel free to contact PHA with your insurance questions as well at Insurance@PHAssociation.org or call 301-565-3004 x773.
I am reading this post after Jan. 31, but still want to enroll. Is there anything I can do?
You may only apply for health insurance through the Marketplace after the open enrollment period if you qualify to enroll during special enrollment periods. Special enrollment periods are instances when individuals can make changes to their health insurance coverage if they meet qualifying life events, such as: losing employer based coverage, becoming a dependent through marriage, birth, adoption or placement for adoption, or gaining citizenship/residency. If you think you may qualify for Medicaid, you can apply at any time of the year if you are eligible. Eligibility can be determined on the Marketplace website.
