By Lyndsey Taylor
Local resources available to help answer questions, assist with enrollment application process in person
Beginning in 2014, the Affordable Care Act requires all U.S. residents to have health insurance. With this requirement, new federal health insurance options have been available since Oct. 1.
The Health Insurance Marketplace allows people to purchase health insurance and compare health plan options. One application can be completed for multiple health plans, according to www.healthcare.gov, the federal government's website devoted to the Health Insurance Marketplace.
Who is eligible?
Individuals, families and businesses with 100 employees or fewer can purchase health insurance through the marketplace, according to www.healthcare.gov. Eligible applicants must:
- Live in areas within the U.S. that offer Health Insurance Marketplace services
- Be a U.S. citizen or be lawfully present in the U.S.
- Not currently be incarcerated
- Exceptions are made for those with financial hardships, religious objections, qualifying Indian tribes and others
Key dates
- Oct. 1—Open enrollment began
- Jan. 1, 2014—Health insurance coverage begins for those who enroll by Dec. 15, 2013. Coverage begins based on date of enrollment.
- March 31, 2014—Open enrollment closes.
Marketplace insurance coverage includes essential health benefits, such as ambulatory services, hospitalization, surgery, maternity and newborn care, prescription drugs, and preventive and wellness services. Insurance plans are divided into four categories—Bronze, Gold, Silver, Platinum—based on income and can include dental coverage.
Visit www.healthcare.gov for information on plans. The site also includes details about eligibility.
How to apply
- Visit www.healthcare.gov.
- Call 1-800-318-2596.
- In person—those who choose to apply in person may do so at local organizations.
- An option to apply by mail is available, according to www.healthcare.gov.
