The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency has affected millions of people throughout the country, and many Americans remain uninsured or underinsured and need access to affordable health coverage. The Marketplace Special Enrollment Period (SEP) due to COVID -19 begins February 15th 2021 and continues until May 15th 2021. This SEP is available to all Marketplace-eligible consumers who are submitting a new application or updating an existing application.
The SEP will allow individuals and families to enroll in the health coverage they need. Consumers who are uninsured can take this opportunity to look for coverage and find out if they qualify for financial assistance to help pay for health insurance. Currently 9 out of 10 consumers enrolled in coverage through HealthCare.gov receive financial help. In addition, all Marketplace plans cover essential health benefits, such as primary care visits, and cover many preventive care services with no out-of-pocket costs to the consumer.
The Health Insurance Marketplace is for people who don’t have health coverage through a job, Medicare, KanCare, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), or another source that provides essential health coverage. The Marketplace can help you get covered.
Based on your income estimate, you may qualify for an advance premium tax credit that lowers your monthly premium and may qualify for extra savings on out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and copayments. The tax credit amount you qualify for depends on number of people on your tax return, age, zip code and modified adjusted gross income. If your income is between the amounts shown here, you may qualify for an Advanced Premium Tax Credit to help lower the cost of your health insurance premium.
If your income is below a certain Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may also qualify for Cost Sharing Reductions, which automatically lower the out-of-pocket costs associated with your plan, including your deductible or copayments. If your income is above the 400% FPL, you can still get health insurance in the Marketplace but pay the full price.
Number in Household Income Range
100% FPL 400% FPL
Individual: $12,760 – $51,040
Family of 2: $17,240 – $68,960
Family of 3: $21,720 – $86,880
Family of 4: $26,200 – $104,800
Family of 5: $30,680 – $122,720
Family of 6: $35,160 – $140,640
Your health insurance through the Marketplace will begin the following month. If you choose a plan in February it will begin in March 1, 2021. Lisa Hart, Certified Application Counselor at The Hope Center in Pratt is available to help you understand your health insurance options under the Affordable Care and Patient Protection and Education Act. Help is provided by appointment only, call 620-450-1153 or e-mail: lhart@prmc.org. This service is free and open to the public as a community benefit from Pratt Regional Medical Center.