2020 Open Enrollment is the designated time when most Americans can buy health insurance for the 2020 calendar year from the Health Insurance Marketplace. In most states, the 2020 Open Enrollment Period runs from Nov. 1, 2019 – Dec. 15, 2019. You can see a list of states that have extended their Open Enrollment deadlines here. You can shop for health insurance plans on the ACA Marketplace here, and you can also change your Marketplace plan during this period.
What is the Health Insurance Marketplace?
The Health Insurance Marketplace was established by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to allow people the opportunity each year to buy ACA-compliant insurance directly. These plans are often referred to as Obamacare. In most states, Open Enrollment is a six-week period that runs from Nov. 1 – Dec. 15, 2019.
Who can shop the Marketplace?
If you live in the United States, are a citizen or a lawfully present immigrant, not incarcerated, and not already enrolled in Medicare, you can shop the Health Insurance Marketplace for an Obamacare health plan during Open Enrollment. Grab our free step-by-step guide to enrolling in Marketplace health insurance here to learn more.
After the annual Open Enrollment Period ends, you will not be able to shop the Marketplace for health coverage unless you have a Qualifying Life Event that makes you eligible for a Special Enrollment Period.
What else can you do on the Marketplace?
You can also see if you qualify for Medicaid, CHIP (the Children’s Health Insurance Program) or Medicare.
How can HealthSherpa assist during 2020 Open Enrollment?
Have questions? Prefer to start your application over the phone? You can call HealthSherpa’s Consumer Advocates at (872) 228-2549. You can enter your zip code below to see available plans in your area. You’ll also be able to compare prices for these plans. And you’ll also see what kinds of subsidies, cost-sharing reductions, and tax credits you qualify for here.
What does Marketplace insurance include?
Due to the Affordable Care Act, all Marketplace plans are required to offer prescription drug coverage and coverage of pre-existing conditions, emergency care, mental health care, and more. Experts do not advise using short-term health insurance plans to replace regular health insurance because short-term plans do not provide the consumer protections laid out by the ACA and do not cover many essential services.