2019’s Open Enrollment Period Runs From November 1st through December 15th, 2019.
However, many states have extended their Open Enrollment Period, which means that anyone living in these states will have additional time to enroll.
Who can enroll in health insurance during Open Enrollment?
Most Americans can enroll in health insurance under the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) during the Open Enrollment Period (OEP).
However, there are a few restrictions:
- You need to live in the United States.
- You need to be a U.S. citizen or national.
- If you are in prison, you cannot enroll.
- If you already have Medicare coverage, you cannot enroll.
- You cannot enroll if you already have access to affordable health insurance through your employer or your spouse’s employer.
If you meet these these requirements, you’ll have access to coverage and you can’t be refused coverage because of pre-existing conditions, because of your salary, or for any other reason not listed above.
When can my health insurance coverage begin?
Typically, coverage will begin on January 1st, 2018 for people who enroll during OEP.
However, if you enroll in a state with an extended deadline, your date of coverage may differ.
- If you enroll by January 15th, your plan will kick in on February 1st
Or if you enroll between Jan 16th-31st, your plan will kick in on March 1st
What do I need to enroll?
Bring the following information when its time to apply:
- Basic information on the people in your family who are apply for coverage
- Household size; (anyone you claim on your tax return).
- For each person include:
- Birthdate
- Address
- Social Security Number
What about Resident Aliens?
You’ll need the Resident Alien number or A-number for anyone in your household who is a Permanent Resident.
You’ll usually need to type in the number. But, you may have to upload the document, so you should have it ready to scan as well.
The immigration statuses that effect your eligibility are vast and complex, so if you want to enroll an Affordable Care Act plan, you can find the required documents on www.healthcare.gov.
What if I want to apply for a tax credit (Obamacare subsidy)?
To apply for a premium tax credit you will also need:
- Your modified adjusted gross income for 2017 (you can estimate if you don’t have your W2s)
- Your most resent tax return
- Income and employer information for your household
- Policy numbers from any current health insurance plans
What about subsidies?
Many Americans are eligible to save on their health insurance costs.
Subsidies can help reduce your premiums.
The Advanced Tax Premiums which help reduce the cost of your monthly premium. This applies to anyone whose income falls between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level.