Health Insurance Blog - Healthcare.gov

Find out if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMT

You may be able to enroll in or change your Marketplace plan outside of Open Enrollment. Life events or changes may open a Special Enrollment Period for you.

What kinds of life events?

Get a full list of qualifying life events.

I experienced a life event. What do I do next?

Report your change to the Marketplace by updating your application. You can do this online, by phone, or in person.

Not sure if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period? Answer a few questions and find out your options. We'll also tell you if you may qualify for free or low-cost health coverage through Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) .

File your taxes using Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace Statement®

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The tax filing deadline is April 15, 2024. If anyone in your household had a Marketplace plan in 2023, use Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace ^® , to file your federal taxes. You’ll get this form from the Marketplace, not the IRS.

It’s important to review your Form 1095-A and reconcile your premium tax credit because it could impact your refund or the amount of taxes you owe.

Check your online account for Form 1095-A

If you didn’t get your Form 1095-A in the mail, or you can’t find it, check your Markteplace account .

Check your Form 1095-A to make sure your information is correct. If you can’t find your form or think there’s a mistake, contact the Marketplace Call Center .

“Reconcile” using Form 1095-A

If you (or anyone in your household) qualified for or used the premium tax credit to lower your Marketplace plan premium:

Health insurance and your taxes

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMT

If you had Marketplace coverage at any point in 2023 and got the premium tax credit , here’s what you need to know about filing your federal taxes.

Keep your Form 1095-A in a safe place

This form has important information about the Marketplace plans your household had in 2023.

Check that your Form 1095-A is correct

"Reconcile" with your Form 1095-A

If you qualified for or used the premium tax credit to lower your Marketplace plan premium:

Now that you’re covered, know how to use your insurance!

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Get the most out of your Marketplace coverage with answers to some common questions, like how to use your coverage and what’s covered.

How do I use my coverage?

• Get more information about using your coverage , like getting regular and emergency care and how to improve your health.
• Learn how to put your health first (PDF, 1820 KB). You’ll find tips on how to find providers and prepare for appointments.

What’s covered?

All Marketplace plans cover:

• 10 essential health benefits , including prescription drugs, emergency services, hospitalization, laboratory services, and mental health and substance use disorder services.
• Free preventive health services at no cost to you when delivered by a doctor or provider in your plan's network.
• Treatment for pre-existing conditions.
• Some prescription drugs. Your plan’s list of covered drugs is called a “formulary.” Find your plan’s formulary by calling Member Services, or review your Summary of Benefits and Coverage .

How do I find a doctor?

You’ll usually get the best cost for services when you use “ in-network ” providers. You may be able to use providers who aren’t in your plan’s network, but you may pay more.

Learn how to find a doctor in your plan's network.

It's tax season! Check your mail for Form 1095-A

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Did someone in your household have a Marketplace plan in 2023? When you file your taxes, you’ll need Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace® Statement. This form comes from the Marketplace, not the IRS.

1. Find your form

It'll be in your mailbox by early February, or in your Marketplace account now. Get step-by-step instructions to find your Form 1095-A online.

2. Check your form

Is it correct? It should include information about any Marketplace plans that members of your household had last year.

3. Use your form

If it’s accurate, use the information on your 1095-A form to "reconcile" any premium tax credit you or your household qualified for or used. To reconcile, you compare two amounts: the premium tax credit you used in advance during the year; and the amount of tax credit you qualify for based on your final income.

Find a problem or mistake? Contact the Marketplace Call Center to get a corrected form. Don't file your federal taxes until you get a corrected version.

Explore your health care options after Open Enrollment

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Marketplace Open Enrollment for health coverage in 2024 ended January 15. If you missed the Open Enrollment window, you might still have options for health coverage for the rest of the year.

Your health coverage options

You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to get coverage or change plans if:

If eligible, you can enroll in Marketplace coverage for the rest of the year outside the annual Open Enrollment Period.

Going once, going twice...Open Enrollment ends soon!

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT

The clock is ticking for you to get health coverage for 2024. Open Enrollment for Marketplace health plans ends January 16. Coverage starts February 1.

Act now: Enroll in health coverage that meets your budget & needs

Questions? Help is available

Get help applying for Marketplace health insurance.

Don’t miss out – get coverage for this year!

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT

Time is running out – your window to apply for, renew, or change your Marketplace plan for 2024 coverage ends on January 15.

Not sure where to start?

If you’re new to HealthCare.gov, create an account and check out some helpful tips about the Marketplace.

Already have a plan?

Whether you want to keep your current plan or are looking for a new one, it’s important to log in and update any income or household changes so you get the right savings. You may also discover new plans that better fit your needs.

Don’t miss out – make sure you’re covered today.

To begin your coverage, make sure you pay your monthly premium

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT

To start your new 2024 Marketplace coverage, pay the first premium. This is the amount you pay every month to the health insurance company to keep your coverage.

How to pay your monthly premium to start your coverage

Follow your insurance company’s instructions on how to pay.

Get details on how to pay your premium to complete your enrollment.

Beat the deadline! Open Enrollment ends in 1 month

Sat, 16 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Act now — don't miss the January 16 deadline to apply for, re-enroll in, or change 2024 health insurance. This holiday season, give yourself the peace of mind that comes with taking care of your health.

Important deadlines to know

Apply & enroll now

Don't miss your chance!

If you miss the deadline, you may have to wait until next year to get coverage. You can only enroll in or change your health plan for 2024 after January 16 if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period .

Get help now if you have questions or need help applying.

Don’t delay: Sign up by Dec 15 for coverage that starts Jan 1!

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Time is running out. The December 15 deadline to apply, re-enroll, or make changes for Marketplace coverage that starts January 1 is approaching fast. Act now to avoid any gaps in coverage.

Take charge of your health & apply today

Acting now means getting the coverage you need for you and your family that starts January 1.

Even if you want to keep your same plan for next year, keep in mind that:

Don’t let the opportunity for January 1 coverage slip away. Get started with an overview of the Marketplace .

Want coverage that starts January 1?

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT

December 15 is the last day to get 2024 coverage that starts January 1. You only have 2 weeks left to visit HealthCare.gov and apply for, renew, or change your Marketplace plan.

Have 2023 coverage & happy with your current plan?

Great! You’ll still want to log into your account and update any expected income or household changes. This makes sure you get the right amount of savings. There may also be new plans that better fit your needs.

Applying for Marketplace coverage for the first time?

Create a HealthCare.gov account and provide current information to help you pick a plan that meets your needs and budget. Get tips on choosing a plan.

Make sure your insurance starts January 1. Visit HealthCare.gov today and beat the December 15 deadline.

Act now: Get Marketplace insurance for 2024

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT

It's Open Enrollment! You have less than a month to enroll in or change plans for coverage that starts January 1.

For coverage to start:

Beat the December 15 deadline for January 1 coverage. Act now to start your year off right .

How to apply & enroll

Need help applying or have questions? Get help now .

Check out 2024 Marketplace coverage options – find, compare, & save!

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Before you apply, check out 2024 coverage options in the Marketplace and get an idea if you qualify for savings. Answer a few quick questions to preview plans and prices before enrolling or renewing coverage for 2024 — you don’t even have to log in!

Enroll by December 15 for coverage that starts January 1.

How to save on a 2024 Marketplace plan:

Get savings & apply now

Need help applying or have questions? Get help now .

Apply for 2024 Marketplace insurance today!

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Open Enrollment for 2024 health insurance is officially here! From now until January 15, 2024, you can apply for new health coverage or make changes to your existing plan for next year.

Apply & enroll at HealthCare.gov

While there are many ways to apply and enroll , filling out an application online is usually faster and easier. Here’s how:

Questions?

Get help

Available now: 2024 plans & prices

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Open Enrollment for 2024 coverage starts November 1! Get a jump start by previewing 2024 plans with personalized price estimates based on your estimated income and household size.

Preview personalized 2024 plans & prices

Previewing plans before Open Enrollment starts can help you compare different options, so you’re ready to choose a plan starting November 1.

So, what are you waiting for? Preview 2024 plans and price estimates now to get a head start on Open Enrollment. Then, come back during Open Enrollment from November 1-January 15 for exact prices, to compare plans, and enroll.

Preview 2024 plans & prices

Get ready: Open Enrollment is less than 2 weeks away

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Open Enrollment for 2024 starts soon. Are you ready? Take steps today to make applying easier. Image Prepare for 2024 Open EnrollmentGather your information (PDF, 184 KB). You'll need basic information about yourself and members of your household.Review how to apply. We guide you through the process in 4 steps.Answer 3 questions and find out if you qualify for savings. Lots of people do.Learn more about how to get ready for Open Enrollment.

Open Enrollment for 2024 coverage starts soon! Get ready now.

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT

You can enroll in a Marketplace health plan for 2024 starting November 1, but don’t wait to get ready. Start preparing now to make enrollment faster and easier.

5 tips to get ready to enroll:

Start with more tips to help you get ready to apply for 2024 — don’t miss out on affordable coverage!

Get your flu shot this fall at no cost

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT

It’s important to get the flu shot to protect you and your family from this potentially serious disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot by the end of October.

3 reasons to get the flu shot this year:

Get more information on protecting yourself from the flu.

Don’t miss out: Connect with the Marketplace in 3 simple ways

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Open Enrollment for 2024 Marketplace health plans starts November 1. Don’t lose out on valuable health insurance information and deadline reminders this fall by connecting with the Marketplace today.

3 quick & easy ways to connect

Take a few minutes right now to stay in the loop. This way, you’ll get regular reminders and updates as Open Enrollment gets closer.

Explore HealthCare.gov to find out dates and deadlines, learn why having health insurance is important, and get enrollment tips. Get started with a quick guide .

Mark Open Enrollment dates on your calendar

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Image Key dates for Marketplace coverage November 1: Open Enrollment starts. December 15: Enroll for coverage that starts January 1. January 15: The last day to enroll; Open Enrollment for 2024 coverage ends. Looking for coverage for the rest of 2023? Find out if you can enroll in Marketplace coverage through a Special Enrollment Period. You can enroll in Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) anytime if you’re eligible. Coverage can start right away. Get a quick guide to the Marketplace.

Report life changes to the Marketplace

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 00:00:00 GMT

When life changes, your health coverage and saving options may change too. If you’ve had a change, like you got married or moved to a new address, let the Marketplace know.

What type of changes should I report?

Certain changes are considered qualifying life events . There are 4 basic types:

These changes may affect the coverage or savings you’re eligible for. Also, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to sign up for health insurance outside of Open Enrollment.

Get the full list of changes to report.

3 ways to report changes:

New baby could mean new health coverage options

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Having a baby qualifies you for a Special Enrollment Period to enroll in or change 2023 Marketplace coverage for you, your baby, and other household members.

Enroll in Marketplace coverage after birth/adoption

Learn more about Special Enrollment Periods and how to apply.

Moving can impact your health coverage

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 00:00:00 GMT

As you get ready to move, it's important to know that your new address may impact your health coverage options and savings. Don't forget to update your Marketplace application to get the best plan for your household, and the right amount of savings.

Your next steps depend on where you move

When you move to a new state :

If you move within the same state :

Learn more about making updates to your Marketplace application when your income or household changes .

10 covered Marketplace health benefits

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT

All private health insurance plans offered in the Health Insurance Marketplace® must cover the same essential health benefits . Care in these 10 categories of services is covered by all Marketplace plans.

10 covered benefits:

In addition, plans must also include birth control and breastfeeding coverage. Some plans may offer dental and vision coverage.

Specific services may vary based on your state’s requirements. Get more information on what Marketplace health insurance plans cover .

Understand your options if you lose Medicaid or CHIP

Sat, 10 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT

For the past few years, states had to continue your coverage in Medicaid (and in some cases the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)), even if your income or other factors changed that would typically make you ineligible.

States are now returning to normal operations, so they’ll recheck your eligibility for these programs again. If your state finds that your household income is now too high or other changes make you ineligible, you may lose your Medicaid or CHIP coverage.

If this happens, you have other options for health insurance.

Your options to enroll in health coverage:

Apply for Marketplace coverage at HealthCare.gov

Enroll now to get coverage that can start the first of next month.

Create an account (or log into an existing one ) to start an application.

Explore your eligibility for Medicaid, CHIP, & Medicare

Learn more about staying covered if you lose Medicaid or CHIP .

3 ways to make the most of your health coverage this summer

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Summer is here! With Marketplace coverage, you’re already in a great place to have a healthy summer. Learn more about how you can stay well this summer: Image 3 ways to stay healthy & make the most of your summer: Choose a provider. Think of your provider as your health care partner. Finding one you trust is important. Learn how to find a doctor in your plan’s network. Get preventive services. Preventive health check-ups can help detect or even prevent health problems before they start. These services, like shots and cancer screenings, are free when you visit a provider in your plan’s network. Check your choppers. The health of your mouth impacts your overall health. If you have dental coverage, be sure you’re up-to-date on your dental checkups. If not, put them on your summer schedule.

Health coverage for young adults

Thu, 18 May 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Health insurance can protect you at any age. Know your options, whether you’re still covered through a parent’s health insurance plan or searching for your own plan. Image 4 health insurance options for young adults Your college or university. If you're in school, you may be able to enroll in a student health plan. A parent’s plan. If you’re under 26, you may be able to enroll in or stay covered through a parent’s health insurance plan. The Marketplace. If you have certain life changes, like a move, or if your income is within a certain range, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to enroll in a Marketplace health plan for the rest of 2023. Get a quick overview of the Health Insurance Marketplace®. Medicaid. If you’re just starting out, you may qualify for free or low-cost coverage through Medicaid and if you’re eligible, you can enroll immediately. Learn more about getting covered if you’re under 30.

New Marketplace coverage changes for COVID-19

Fri, 12 May 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 is over. Your Marketplace plan may have some changes to how it covers services for COVID-19.

Coverage changes for COVID‑19

The Special Enrollment Period for the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency ends June 9, 2023.

Learn more about these changes and your coverage options .

Did your income or household recently change?

Thu, 04 May 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Be sure to let us know if your income or household size recently changed – like if you got a raise or had a baby – by updating your Marketplace application. New coverage options and savings may be available to you. You may qualify for more savings than you’re getting now, so don’t miss out.

What changes should I report?

Get the full list of changes .

How to report changes

Report changes to the Marketplace by updating your application. You can update your application online, by phone, or in person.

To update your application online, you'll need to open your existing application and make changes.

Preventive services you don’t want to skip

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Now that you have Marketplace coverage, take advantage of the many free preventive services to help you stay healthy and get the care you need. Getting these services and making healthy lifestyle choices are key steps to good health and well-being. Check with your doctor to find out what services are right for you.

What are preventive services?

Common preventive services

Get more information on preventive and wellness services for your whole household, and learn more about preventive care from the CDC .

The time to file taxes is almost over. Here’s what to know

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 00:00:00 GMT

The last day to file your 2022 federal income taxes is April 18, 2023. If anyone in your household had Marketplace health coverage in 2022, you’ll use Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace® Statement to file. (If you didn’t get Form 1095-A online or by mail, or if the information on it’s wrong, contact the Marketplace Call Center.) Image How to “reconcile” on your tax returnYou’ll use your Form 1095-A to "reconcile" your 2022 premium tax credits when you file your taxes if you or anyone in your household had Marketplace coverage at any point in 2022.Any difference between the amount of premium tax credit you used in advance during the year and the premium tax credit you actually qualify for based on your final income will affect whether you owe money or get a refund.If you used premium tax credits you’ll report the excess advance payment of the premium tax credit on your tax return or file Form 8962, Premium Tax Credit (PDF, 110 KB).Questions? Free help is availableUse our tax tool to figure out your premium tax credit or claim an affordability exemption.Find out where to get free volunteer tax help.Learn about the IRS Free File and related services.Find a tax software program to help you prepare your taxes.

Get to know your Marketplace health plan

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Congratulations on getting covered for 2023! Get answers to some common questions about health insurance, like how to find a doctor and learn what prescriptions are covered. Image What prescriptions are covered by my plan? Your plan will help pay the cost of certain prescriptions. Your plan’s list of covered drugs is called a "formulary." Visit your plan’s website, call their Member Services, or review your Summary of Benefits and Coverage for a list of covered drugs. How can I find a doctor in my plan? Most plans give you the best price on services when you go to an "in-network" health care provider who has a contract with the plan. You may be able to visit doctors who aren’t in your plan’s network, but you may pay more. Learn how to find a doctor in your plan's network. How do I use my coverage? Learn how to stay healthy and get the care you need (PDF, 698 KB). You’ll find tips on where to go for care, how to find a provider, and more. Get more information about using your Marketplace coverage, like filling prescriptions and getting regular and urgent care.

Check your mail for Form 1095-A

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Tax season is here. If anyone in your household had a Marketplace plan in 2022, you'll need Form 1095-A, Health Insurance Marketplace® Statement, to file your federal taxes. Image Where’s my Form 1095-A? You should get Form 1095-A in the mail by early February. Keep it with your important tax information, like W-2 forms and other records. Form 1095-A comes from the Marketplace, not the IRS. It may be available online in your HealthCare.gov account even sooner. Learn how to find it. How to use Form 1095-A Before you do anything, make sure Form 1095-A is correct. It includes information about any Marketplace plans that members of your household had last year. If anything about your coverage or household is wrong, contact the Marketplace Call Center. Don’t file your federal taxes until you’re sent a corrected version. Once you’ve verified its accuracy, use the information from your Form 1095-A to “reconcile” any premium tax credit for all household members.