SMA News Forums Forums Awareness and Advocacy Raising Awareness of SMA 2019 Open Enrollment for Healthcare In the U.S.

  • 2019 Open Enrollment for Healthcare In the U.S.

    Posted by brianna-albers on November 13, 2018 at 11:00 am

    Beginning November 1st, 2018, U.S. citizens are able to visit healthcare.gov or their state’s marketplace or health insurance exchange in search of more affordable health insurance. During “open enrollment,” U.S. citizens can review the private health insurance options available to them and purchase coverage. During open enrollment, people with low and moderate incomes may be able to secure financial assistance, extending to the cost of premiums and even reduced cost sharing. People covered by their employer or people who get their health insurance through Medicaid or Medicare are not eligible for financial assistance.

    Open enrollment is the only time you can change insurance plans during the year. However, there are two exceptions to this rule. If you lose your job, get married or divorced, have a baby, or experience another major life event, you can sign up for insurance outside of open enrollment. You can also enroll in Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) year-round.

    The 2019 open enrollment period began November 1st, 2018 and ends December 15th, 2018. Insurance coverage for the new year begins January 1st, 2019. However, the following states have extended open enrollment periods: California; Colorado; Washington, DC; Massachusetts; Minnesota; New York; and Rhode Island. If you live in one of those seven states, check out the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)’s post on open enrollment for more information.

    Even if you are already insured, it’s important to update your income and household information. Moreover, as of this year, some plans may charge you more if you have been diagnosed with a pre-existing condition. Make sure you read all health insurance notices and updates, and don’t be afraid to look into changing plans if you feel your needs are not being met. The AAPD’s post on open enrollment has more information for those with questions on health insurance and their current coverage.

    brianna-albers replied 5 years, 4 months ago 1 Member · 0 Replies
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