WASHINGTON, D.C. – Beginning yesterday, Americans who buy their own coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplaces and those who are uninsured and lack coverage may qualify for extra financial support. With expanded eligibility for new enhanced premium assistance taking effect under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), coverage will be more affordable for millions of Americans.
The special enrollment period (SEP) is an opportunity for people who are uninsured, or who currently have coverage through the individual market, to see if they qualify for additional savings and choose a plan that best fits their needs. America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) has launched an online “Decision Tree” tool to help consumers determine their eligibility for this new assistance.
AHIP’s new SEP landing page also features other important resources to help guide consumers through the SEP, including fast facts, an educational blog, a link to a Get Covered Connector tool offered by Young Invincibles, and a link to a Health Insurance Marketplace Calculator provided by the Kaiser Family Foundation.
“Health insurance coverage is an important way to protect your health and financial stability, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Matt Eyles, president and CEO of AHIP. “Health insurance available through the individual marketplaces cover products and services such as COVID-19 care and vaccines, mental health care and support, $0 copay preventive care, regular doctor visits and prescription medications to keep you healthy, and much more.”
Enhanced eligibility for premium assistance is part of the recently enacted American Rescue Plan Act). Under these provisions of ARPA, approximately 15 million Americans who don’t have health insurance will be able to save money on their premiums to find the coverage they need at a price they can afford. Moreover, about 9 million Americans who currently receive financial assistance will be able to reduce the cost of their coverage with enhanced premium assistance. On average, a person enrolling in coverage as of April 1 can save $50 a month on premiums, and 4 out of 5 enrollees will be able to find a plan for $10 or less a month.
The SEP began on February 15, 2021. Consumers will have until August 15, 2021 to determine if they are eligible for enhanced premium assistance.
Please click here to access AHIP’s Decision Tree and to view AHIP’s new special enrollment period webpage.
About AHIP
AHIP is the national association whose members provide coverage for health care and related services to hundreds of millions of Americans every day. Through these offerings, we improve and protect the health and financial security of consumers, families, businesses, communities and the nation. We are committed to market-based solutions and public-private partnerships that improve affordability, value, access, and well-being for consumers. Visit www.ahip.org for more information.