What You Need To Know For 2017 Affordable Care Act Enrollment

November 17, 2016

Do you buy health insurance on your own?

Open enrollment will run from November 1 through January 31. Insurance enrollment deadlines are quickly approaching – for coverage beginning on January 1, you’ll need to sign up by December 15. The deadline for coverage starting February 1 is January 15. For coverage starting March 1, you’ll need to sign up by January 31.

Insurance Rate Increases are Expected

Unfortunately, the price of health plans sold through Connecticut’s individual market is projected to rise considerably. These price increases depend on several factors including age, county and of course, the specific plan that you sign up for.

Some price increases can be offset by federal tax credits.

Additionally, there will be fewer insurance companies that will sell plans. Two companies that will no longer offer coverage in the state’s individual market include both United Healthcare and HealthyCT. You can research your choices for exchange plans at www.accesshealthct.com or you can also use the exchange’s call center at 1-855-805-4325.

The Access Health Exchange will have brokers available to help you pick a plan.

Access Health will have brokers available through its call center, at 1-855-805-4325. To find assistance, in-person, near you click here.

Remember if you do not have healthcare coverage, you may pay a penalty when you file your taxes.

Depending on your income, households may qualify for discounted coverage. If you do qualify, you can only receive the discount if you buy insurance through the exchange.

The Bottom Line

Connecticut residents now have limited choice when it comes to purchasing health insurance on the Access Health Exchange and the options that remain have a noticeably higher price. For example, Anthem’s rates will increase between 10.8% – 35.2% and ConnectiCare’s rates will increase between 15.4% – 24.8%.

For an in-depth look into what you need to know for the 2017 Affordable Care Act Open Enrollment period, read a helpful CT Mirror Article, here.