Amid thecoronavirus pandemic, many people have realized that access to health care is more important than ever.
On November 1, open enrollment began for Affordable Care Act coverage starting January 1, 2021.
But the political turmoil surrounding the Affordable Care Act makes the situation this year even more perplexing than usual.
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To make it all a little easier, weve highlighted what you should probably know during this open-enrollment period.
Here are nine things to keep in mind as you wade your way through Obamacare open enrollment for 2021.
First things first, know that the marketplaceisopen.
These ongoing political battles have caused confusion about the status of the ACA.
But rest assured, you’re able to sign up for insurance if you would like.
Open enrollment on the federal marketplace only lasts from November 1 to December 15.
The plan you choose during this period will go into effect on January 1, 2021.
You may actually still qualify for 2020 coverage.
People who believe they will lose their insurance in the next 60 days may qualify too.
(This applies to dependents who age out of their parents plan, for example.)
Consider how the coronavirus may change your insurance needs.
First, its important to know thatall ACA plans cover treatmentforpreexisting medical conditions.
Further, your coverage cant be terminated just because you develop a new condition, such as COVID-19.
People who do receive financial assistance usually get a three-month grace period for late payments.
The grace period varies by state law, so you will need to call your insurance company for details.
You may also qualify for a cheaper plan if your income changed during the pandemic.
If you dont have insurance, now is a good time to research affordable plans.
Due to the pandemic, many doctors started offering virtual visits using Zoom or even FaceTime.
ACA insurance options may be a bit more affordable than last year.
Theres a chance you could find good coverage for a lower price this year.
So, not a ton, but every little bit helps.
All plans are required to cover what the Obama administration dubbed essential health benefits.
These include a yearly checkup, a well-woman visit, and mental healthservices.
You may be eligible for financial assistance that lowers your insurance costs.
Its estimated thatmore than 5.3 million peoplewho shop on the exchanges qualify for these subsidies.
You should always shop around before buying to make an informed decision.
When in doubt, there are informed navigators to help you consider your options.
Navigators help people maneuver the landscape of Healthcare.gov and the plan that works best for their lifestyle.
If youre not sure where to find a navigator in your area, visit Healthcare.govsFind Local Help tool.
The pandemic has changed manyin-person services, so contact navigators about conducting virtual sessions.
There is no federal penalty for going without coverage.
Initially,people who went without health insurance had to pay a tax penalty after the ACA passed.
This was known as the individual mandate.
This aspect of Obamacare was unpopular because people felt forced into buying coverage.
However, economists now say the mandate didnt affect insurance sign up,The New York Timesreported.
In 2017 the Trump administrationremovedthe individual mandate, but certain states created their own versions.
you’ve got the option to check with your states department of health care services to learn more.
You may worry that an Affordable Care Act plan doesnt make sense for you financially.
Astronomical medical debt can follow people for decades, particularlywhen COVID-19 casesare at an all-time high in our country.
(Although there are some methods ofnegotiating high medical coststhat may help.)
Its always better to have insurance, Donovan says.
