Open enrollment for Health Insurance Marketplaces ends this weekend, on February 15, 2015. During open enrollment, individuals may enroll in a healthcare plan, change plans, or apply for assistance to pay for coverage. Anyone looking to enroll and in need
of assistance can obtain help by visiting
HealthCare.gov or CuidadoDeSalud.gov websites or calling the Marketplace call center at (800) 318-2598 or (855) 889-4325 for TTY users. In addition, local assistance can be found by visiting Localhelp.healthcare.gov.
If you miss the deadline for coverage you may still have options, including qualifying for a special enrollment period or programs such as
Medicaid and CHIP. Information on
private plans outside the Marketplace that sell plans outside of open enrollment is also available.
You may notice questions relating to healthcare coverage when filing your 2014 taxes. If you did not have coverage in 2014, you will pay a fee, unless you qualify for an exemption. Tax penalties for not having coverage for 2015 will be even higher. Further
information on fees, exemptions, and qualifications can be found under
“Fees and Exemptions Overview” on Healthcare.gov.
Don’t get caught uncovered. Business Consumer Alliance offers reports on healthcare providers, insurance agents, brokers, and various professions in the healthcare industry. Visit BCA’s website to locate
a business and obtain a reliability report.
About the Author:
Nicole Pitts is a Senior Business Analyst and Editor for Business Consumer Alliance. She has been with the organization for 12 years and specializes in report writing, business evaluation, and investigations. Nicole corresponds with businesses regarding
complaint trends and provides suggestions to help them alleviate problem areas that may cause concern. She also conducts advertisement reviews, reports on government enforcement actions, and assists government agencies and the media in obtaining information.
She enjoys reading, movies, and spending time with her family. Nicole can be reached by email at npitts@businessconsumeralliance.org.