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The open enrollment period is a window in which people can purchase health insurance for the upcoming year. During the Open Enrollment period, you can apply without a qualifying life event.
When Is the Open Enrollment Period for Obamacare 2020-2021?
Obamacare open enrollment period 2020 period is over. So, when is open enrollment for Obamacare 2021? It starts on November 1, 2020 and continues until January 31, 2021. If you do not enroll during this period, you have to wait for the Medicare open enrollment 2021.
What Are My Options During Open Enrollment Period for Obamacare?
Depending on the prevailing situation, you have the following options.
- Purchase a plan through Covered California – You can buy a plan through the marketplace if you qualify for a tax credit to help in offsetting your premium amount. Qualifying depends on your income and household size. Moreover, your total household income should be between 128% and 400% of the federal poverty level, or FPL.
- Renew or change your current plan – You can renew your existing plan during the open enrollment period. You will not have to do anything if you want to keep what you have. However, if your current plan is changing then you may want to switch to a plan that best suits your current needs. The open enrollment period is the best time if you need to change policies.
- Enroll in Medi-Cal – If your income is below 128% of the Federal Poverty Level, you qualify for Medi-Cal, which is Medicaid for Californians.
What if I want to Apply and it is not Open Enrollment?
The only alternative is to buy an insurance plan outside of Obamacare open enrollment period dates to qualify for special enrollment. This period is called the Special Enrollment Period (SEP). This exception allows one to apply for health insurance if you have had certain qualifying life events, such as:
- Moving to a new state
- Getting married or divorced
- Losing your job
- Aging off your parent’s plan
- Having a new baby
- Becoming a widow or widower
It is imperative to note that you will not be eligible for special enrollment if you lost your previous health plan. That is because you failed to pay your monthly premiums or if you voluntarily canceled the coverage.
What Are Your Options During Obamacare Open Enrollment Period?
Depending on your current situation, here are some of the options you have.
- Purchase a plan through Covered California – You should buy a plan through the marketplace if you qualify for a tax credit that can offset your premiums. Qualifying depends on your income and household size. To qualify, your total household income should be between 128% and 400% of the federal poverty level, or FPL.
- Renew or change your current plan – note that you can renew your existing plan during the open enrollment period. You will not have to do anything if you want to keep what you have. However, if your current plan is changing, you may want to switch to a plan that best suits your current needs. If you require to change policies, the open enrollment period is the most suitable time.
- Enroll in Medi-Cal – If your income is less than 128% of the Federal Poverty Level, you qualify for Medi-Cal, which acts as Medicaid for California residents.
Which Health Insurance Options do not Use Open Enrollment?
Most health insurance companies in California use some open enrollment programs. However, there are a few exceptions:
- Medi-Cal – this does not limit enrollment to the open enrollment period. If you are eligible for Medi-Cal, you are allowed to enroll at any time.
- CHIP – the Children’s Health Insurance Program does not limit enrollment to a specific time, either.
If you do not qualify for an income-based subsidy, it is cheaper to get a plan outside of the state marketplace. Notably, off-exchange plans outside of Covered California are often cheaper as compared to those sold through Covered California. Nevertheless, bear in mind that they frequently offer a less comprehensive coverage.
California opens the door for consumers to purchase health insurance plans longer than any other state. Precisely, the open enrollment deadline health insurance enrollment period 2020 in California is January 31, 2021. For more information, contact health insurance today.
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