As January 1st is fast approaching the first ACA compliant policies are going into force some that have have been purchased through the Healthcare.gov and some that have been purchased through agents and direct with carriers.  The first part of the story is now people can get covered with no fear of being denied for any health conditions such as diabetes, BMI (Body Mass Index), Cancer, Mental Illness, Pregnancy, children alone and other conditions that may have in the past been deniable conditions by the insurance company.

The new law makes things easier for those who may need health insurance.  For others we have created some issues for them in the Medicaid Gap created between 100% of the poverty level and 138% of the poverty level in states where they did not adjust the medicaid level to match the lower range of subsidies to pay for the health insurance premiums.  The other aspect of the Affordable Care Act for those who do not qualify for a subsidy or if they do not want to try to obtain a subsidy, the premiums on these plans have caused some major increases in premium to allow everyone to be able to get insurance with or without subsidy.  I have seen the premiums go up about 45% in my case if I moved to an ACA compliant policy.

The premiums are not where they used to be and everything has changed on the policies available on the market.  We want to ensure everyone finds the best solution for their family.  I am helping clients enroll in Marketplace plans and off the marketplace depending on what they would like to do.  There is no added cost to working with agents and you will have a personal advocate in the event of any issues.

The new health care law does allow you to change your policy annually between October 1st and December 15th.  In 2014, they have a open enrollment period that will end on March 31st.  The policy will be effective if you enroll by the 15th the first of the following month.  If you enroll after the 15th of the month, it will be effective the 1st of the following month.  They way the enrollments work is different than they do today.  Outside of the enrollment period, they will not be able to make any changes, you can only make changes if you have a life event or move out of the service area.  If you miss the open enrollment, there is no opportunity for enrollment.  This is a big change.

If you are struggling with figuring out what to do or if you can qualify for a subsidy, work with a local agent.  Give us a call and we can walk you through the process to get you signed up and give you advice to find the best solution for you.  There is no added costs to work with an agent.  We can work on and off the federal Marketplace.  We do not limit your selections or ability to obtain a subsidy.  Let us help you today – there is still time to enroll.  Enroll by January 15th and have coverage February 1st.  We have found some people can qualify to have their subsidy make their monthly premium $0.08/month for a silver plan with some cost sharing benefits to reduce your out of pocket.   Don’t delay and we can help you get enrolled.