Frequently Asked Questions

Make informed decisions about your coverage and care. 

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1. What is the Health Insurance Marketplace?

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The marketplace is a single place where consumers can apply for and enroll in health insurance coverage that’s right for them and their families. The Marketplace is a new way to find quality health coverage. It can help if you don’t have coverage now or if you have it but want to look at other options.

 

2. What will I learn when I apply in the Health Insurance Marketplace?

 

When you use the Health Insurance Marketplace, you'll fill out an application and see all the health plans available in your area. You'll provide some information about your household size and income to find out if you can get lower costs on your monthly premiums for private insurance plans. You'll learn if you qualify for lower out-of-pocket costs.

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3. When does enrollment begin?

 

Open Enrollment 2022 period begins November 1, 2021 and runs until January 15, 2022. Enroll by December 15, 2021 for coverage that starts January 1, 2022. See deadlines.

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4. What can I do starting on November 1, 2021?   

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• Apply by filling out the Marketplace application

 

• Enroll in a plan or program

 

• Update your information on your application

 

• Renew or change your plan​

• Compare your coverage

• Find someone near you for enrollment help. Enter your ZIP code for a list of assisters, agents, or brokers in your area.

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5. How can I save on health insurance?

 

Saving money in the Health Insurance Marketplace depends on your income and family size. You may be able to lower costs on your monthly premiums when you enroll in a private health insurance plan, or you may qualify for lower out-of-pocket costs for copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.

 

6. How can I get ready to enroll in the Marketplace?

 

To prepare to enroll, you can learn about types of health coverage, research your questions, and figure out what you need to know before open enrollment begins. The Health Insurance Marketplace will help you get coverage that meets your needs and fits your budget. You won’t be able to start your application for Marketplace insurance until November 1, 2020. But you don’t have to wait to find out about the Marketplace in your state or download a checklist that can help you get ready. For more information on how to apply for coverage, compare your options, and enroll, visit www.HealthCare.gov.

 

7. Do I need to provide specific information to enroll?

 

Yes. When you apply for coverage in the Health Insurance Marketplace, you’ll need to provide some information about you and your household, including income, any insurance you currently have, and the following additional items:

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• Social Security Numbers (or document numbers for legal immigrants)

• Employer and income information for every member of your household who needs coverage (for example, from pay stubs or W-2 forms—Wage and Tax Statements)

• Policy numbers for any current health insurance plans covering members of your household

• A completed Employer Coverage Tool (click here to view tool) for every job-based plan you or someone in your household is eligible for. (You’ll need to fill out this form even for coverage you’re eligible for but don’t enroll in.) Download printable checklist.

 

8. Where can I go to get more information?

 

If you have questions about the Health Insurance Marketplace, feel free to call 1-800-318-2596/ TTY: 1-855-889-4325, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (except holidays). 

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9. What is a special enrollment period? Do I qualify?

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A special enrollment period occurs when the door for marketplace coverage has closed and specific life events have impacted an applicant. Qualifying circumstances are the following:

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o   Loss of Health Care Coverage

o   Moving Residences

o   Marriage

o   Having/Had a Baby

o   Adopting a Child

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If a special enrollment period is permitted the applicant has approximately 60 days to enroll for a health plan through the marketplace. Learn more.