Beginning in 2014, the Affordable Care Act requires all U.S. residents to have health insurance. With this requirement, new federal health insurance options became available online 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 one's 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 and Platinum—based on income and can include dental coverage. Plan prices became available Oct. 1 on www.healthcare.gov. 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 including Dell Children's Circle of Care Pediatrics at Whitestone, 1730 E. Whitestone Blvd., Cedar Park, 877-800-5722.

For more information about local organizations that can help with navigation and enrollment, visit https://localhelp.healthcare.gov/