The Health Insurance Marketplace begins open enrollment on November 15, 2014, and will run through February 15, 2015. During this period, all health plans offered through the Marketplace will be accepting new enrollees. Those currently without health insurance, or those looking to switch their health care plan, may do so through the Marketplace during this open enrollment period.
While the Marketplace was created to offer affordable health insurance to all families in the U.S., and allow those previously ineligible for traditional health insurance plans to find better coverage, the health insurance agents at RV Johnson may be able to assist you as well. We have access to low cost options for everyone, including those previously ineligible due to a pre-existing condition. By using an agent, you can receive guidance from an insurance professional who is looking out for your family.
As licensed agents, we can help with your healthcare needs, answer any health insurance questions you may have, shop multiple policies to ensure you’re getting the best coverage for your money, or help you get enrolled in the Marketplace if that is a better option for you family.
Did you purchase health insurance through the Marketplace during the first open enrollment? The same as with your auto insurance or home insurance policy, if you do nothing, your health insurance plan through the Marketplace will automatically renew as long as that plan isn’t being retired. For many people this works out great; but having the right health insurance is very important for your peace of mind and your health. By talking with an agent, you can see if this automatic renewal is the best option for you or if another plan could cover your healthcare needs more effectively.
Here are 5 items to consider as the U.S. heads into the open enrollment period:
1. Is your health or your family’s health changing? Is there a baby on the way? Do you need a costly surgery? If your situation has changed since you first enrolled, then you need to make sure your current health plan still meets your needs. Maybe a health care plan with a higher premium, but lower deductibles and co-pays would be better moving forward.
2. Watch for important notifications via mail, or email, from your insurance plan or the government. The government will send you a notice about automatic re-enrollment and your insurance company will send you a notice about how much your plan will cost in 2015 or they will notify you if your current plan is being retired. Your insurance carrier will also send you a statement of how much you will save on your monthly bill if you are eligible for financial assistance programs through a tax credit.
Carefully look over these documents and call us to discuss. Be sure to bring these documents to your consultation so that we can ensure you’re getting the best coverage.
3. Has your health plan changed? Health plans change from year to year. For example, premiums and copays may change. Your doctor may no longer be covered by the plan. Look over your plan carefully to make sure it’s still right for you.
In addition, some new health plans are being added to the Marketplace, and some plans are leaving. One of the new plans may give you better value at lower cost. If the plan you have now is discontinued, your insurance company will automatically offer you a plan that is most similar to the discontinued one.
4. Have your finances changed? Did your household income go up or down? Make sure you update your financial information with the Marketplace. If your income went up and you don’t report it, you may wind up receiving more financial assistance (tax credits) than you should. You would then end up having to reimburse the government. If your income went down, you may be missing out on some financial help, just when you need it the most. Give us a call and we can assist you in completing a new Marketplace application.
5. Remember: If you do nothing, you will be automatically enrolled in the plan offered in the notice from your insurance company. To keep that plan, you don’t have to do anything. But, if you want to change that plan, you must take action. The notice will explain what to do.
If you have questions, or would like more information about open enrollment, you can:
- Call RV Johnson Agency at (772) 287-3366.
- Contact your insurance company.
- Call the Marketplace at (800) 318-2596.