Health Insurance Blog - Healthcare.gov

How we're working to improve HealthCare.gov

Healthcare.gov — Mon, 04 Nov 2013 00:00:00 -0500

We’re committed to updating you on our progress as we work to improve HealthCare.gov. Check back often to get the latest information on the status of our site.

And remember, there are 4 ways you can apply for coverage.

Monday, November 4: A weekend of work brings more progress

We've made more than a dozen important fixes to the HealthCare.gov application and enrollment system to improve performance and functionality. This includes fixes to correct information on 834 notices that insurance companies use to process enrollments.

Friday, November 1: An update on progress

We've made progress this week in crossing items off the punch list, fixing bugs, and improving site performance. HealthCare.gov works better today for users than it did last week and we will continue to measure our progress, hold teams accountable, and drive upgrades to improve the consumer experience.

Thursday, October 31: More information on the tech surge

We’ve added key personnel from the government and private sector, including expert engineers and technology managers from Google, Oracle, and Red Hat.

Tuesday, October 29: Improving the account registration process

We’ve made significant progress since October 1 to deliver a much smoother account registration process for consumers. Several new fixes have substantially reduced the error rate and increased our capacity.

Monday, October 28: Continued improvements to HealthCare.gov

Working over the weekend with new management in place, the tech team made some fixes to address performance and functionality. We’re diagnosing problems and making quick decisions with developers to resolve issues in real time.

Saturday, October 26: What’s working in the Marketplace

Every day, we’re using the Data Services Hub – a secure and efficient tool – to help you and your family get affordable, quality health care. Yesterday, we announced a clear path forward so that by the end of November, HealthCare.gov will work smoothly for the vast majority of consumers.

Wednesday, October 23: See how we’re making HealthCare.gov better

Over the last few days, we’ve shared updates with you on our tech surge and the steps we’re taking to ensure that HealthCare.gov gets better. Moving forward we will provide updates through regular blogs and press telebriefings.

Tuesday, October 22: A technology surge for HealthCare.gov

We’ve brought in experts from across the federal government and private sector to improve the consumer experience on HealthCare.gov.

Sunday, October 20: Making improvements to HealthCare.gov

The initial consumer experience of HealthCare.gov has not lived up to the expectations of the American people. We’re working around the clock and committed to doing better.

We’re listening — and improving every day

Healthcare.gov — Mon, 21 Oct 2013 00:00:00 -0400

We know using HealthCare.gov has been frustrating for many Americans. The initial consumer experience of HealthCare.gov has not lived up to the expectations of the American people. We are committed to doing better.

We’ve been gathering feedback since the day we launched – from our customer service representatives, social media channels, and through hundreds of thousands of online surveys and comments. And we’re listening.

We’ve been making changes to respond directly to your feedback and will continue to do so. A few of our most important changes so far:

You can now preview plans and prices available in your area without filling out the online application.
You can find out, with an improved calculator, whether your income and household size may qualify you for lower costs on your monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
You can apply for coverage 4 ways: By phone, online, by mail with a paper application, or with the help of an in-person assister.
We’ve been adding educational online content where you tell us you need more information: About estimating your income, accounting for people in your household, eligibility rules, and more.

And please keep the feedback coming – on this blog post below, on any of our social media pages, or by using the little “Was this page helpful?” survey that appears near the bottom of most pages on the site.

We won’t rest until every American who needs affordable, high-quality coverage can get it - using whatever method works best for them.

4 ways to apply for coverage in the Health Insurance Marketplace

Healthcare.gov — Mon, 21 Oct 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Open enrollment in the Health Insurance Marketplace is here and we’re working hard to help you get covered. We’re making improvements to HealthCare.gov and more people are applying and getting covered every day.

How to apply for Marketplace coverage

There are 4 ways to apply for coverage in the Health Insurance Marketplace:

Apply online. Visit this page and select your state to get started.
Apply by phone. Call 1-800-318-2596 to apply for a health insurance plan and enroll over the phone. (TTY: 1-855-889-4325)
Apply in person. Visit a trained counselor in your community to get information, apply, and enroll in person.
Apply by mail. Complete a paper application and mail it in.

Get details on all 4 ways to apply.

Here’s what you need to know about the Marketplace before you apply. You can use this calculator to see if you qualify for lower costs on coverage and preview Marketplace plans and prices before you start your application.

Open enrollment in the Health Insurance Marketplace is here!

Healthcare.gov — Tue, 01 Oct 2013 00:00:00 -0400

The Health Insurance Marketplace is open! You can now enroll in a health insurance plan that covers essential benefits, pre-existing conditions, and preventive services.

Most people who apply for coverage will qualify for lower costs of some kind in the Marketplace.

4 things you can do before you apply

Your next steps

Apply now. Start your application for coverage in the Health Insurance Marketplace.
Want to learn more first? Start here.
Connect with us. Are you looking forward to getting covered? Tell us why health insurance is important to you. Start a conversation with your friends and family. And share your thoughts on Twitter and Facebook. Use the hashtag #GetCovered.

10 ways to get ready for the Health Insurance Marketplace

Healthcare.gov — Sat, 21 Sep 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Open enrollment in the Health Insurance Marketplace is coming soon. Here’s how you can get ready to enroll starting October 1, 2013.

Find the Marketplace in your state and get your options & info.
Sign up for email or text updates about the Marketplace and connect with us on social media.
Gather basic information about your household income to see if you qualify for lower costs on Marketplace coverage. Use this checklist to get started.
Set your budget and estimate your costs and savings in the Marketplace.
Make sure you understand how coverage works, including things like premiums, deductibles, out-of-pocket maximums, copayments, and coinsurance.
Learn about the different types of health coverage.
Explore your current options. You may be able to get coverage that starts before January 1, 2014 through existing programs.
Ask your employer if it plans to offer health insurance in 2014. If you don’t have coverage, you may have to pay a fee.
Learn how to get help with your Marketplace application. Visit LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov to find help in your area.
Get help with a Marketplace question. You can call 1-800-318-2596, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. TTY users should call 1-855-889-4325. Online chat is also available 24/7.

4 steps to getting covered in the Health Insurance Marketplace

Healthcare.gov — Fri, 20 Sep 2013 00:00:00 -0400

You can apply for health coverage, compare all your options, and enroll in a plan in one streamlined application through the Health Insurance Marketplace. When open enrollment begins October 1, 2013, you can fill out your application and see the health coverage options available to you.

1. Create an account

First provide some basic information. Then choose a user name, password, and security questions for added protection.

2. Apply for Marketplace coverage

Enter information about you and your family, including your income, household size, and more. Use this checklist now to help you gather the information you’ll need.

3. Pick a plan

Next you’ll see all the health insurance plans and programs you’re eligible for and compare them side-by-side. You’ll also find out if you can get lower costs on Marketplace coverage.

4. Enroll

Choose a health insurance plan that meets your needs and enroll! Coverage starts as soon as January 1, 2014.

If you need help with your Marketplace application, there are people trained and certified to help you understand your health coverage options and enroll in a plan in every state. And remember that you can contact us anytime by phone or live web chat for help with a Marketplace question.

Alejandra’s story: College students need coverage too!

Healthcare.gov — Wed, 18 Sep 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Have you met Alejandra?

Alejandra is an ambitious student with big dreams. She is looking forward to college and has plans to become a health professional – just like her big sister Mayra. And like millions of young adults across the country, Alejandra does not have health insurance.

Making ends meet. Trying to make something of herself.

Alejandra’s sister Mayra explained:

"Alejandra paid $300 out of her own pocket for a checkup and some shots that she needed for school.

If you’re a young person like Alejandra, you might not be thinking a lot about health insurance—until the day you need it.

You might have other priorities. But what if you get into an accident, are diagnosed with a serious illness, or have medical requirements for school or work?"

How the Marketplace helps people like Alejandra

In the Marketplace, 22 preventive services are available to keep Alejandra healthy at no additional cost. That $300 bill she paid for her checkup could’ve been free.
If she needs help paying for coverage, she may qualify for lower costs in the Marketplace. Or she can purchase a “catastrophic” health plan available to people under 30 when Open Enrollment begins in October.
Specific plans and prices will be available on October 1. In the meantime, Alejandra can use this quick calculator to estimate her costs and savings.
If she has questions about her application for coverage in the Marketplace, she’ll be able to get real-time help in English or Spanish over the phone, in person, or via live web chat.

Share your story

Alejandra is looking forward to finding affordable coverage in the Health Insurance Marketplace on October 1. Her big sister is looking forward to it too.

What about you? Are you looking forward to getting covered?

Find out how health care is changing - in 214 words and share your thoughts in a Tweet.
Leave us a comment on Facebook or comment on the blog below.
And don’t forget to check out the Healthy Young America video contest. It is a chance for you to create a video, compete for prizes, and help young adults learn more about finding health coverage. Entries are due September 23, 2013.

Calculating your costs and savings in the Health Insurance Marketplace

Healthcare.gov — Tue, 17 Sep 2013 00:00:00 -0400

When you fill out your Health Insurance Marketplace application, you'll find out what plans and premiums are available to you and see how much you will save. Most people who apply will qualify for lower costs of some kind.

What you can do before Open Enrollment

Open enrollment begins in less than two weeks. Specific prices for Marketplace plans will be available starting October 1.

In the meantime, here are some steps you can take that will help you estimate your costs and savings:

Use the Kaiser Family Foundation Calculator to get an estimate of your costs and savings.
Find out if you may qualify for lower costs on your monthly premiums.
Find out if you may qualify for lower out of pocket costs.
Learn more about low-cost coverage through Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

If you have questions about getting covered in the Health Insurance Marketplace, contact us at 1-800-318-2596, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. TTY users can call 1-855-889-4325.

How to get help with your Marketplace application

Healthcare.gov — Mon, 16 Sep 2013 00:00:00 -0400

There’s a new way to get help with your application for coverage in the Health Insurance Marketplace.

Visit LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov to find help in your area. You can search by city and state or ZIP code to see a list of local organizations with contact information, office hours, and types of help offered, such as non-English language support, Medicaid or Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP).

Different kinds of help to meet your needs

There are people trained and certified to help you understand your health coverage options and enroll in a plan in every state including:

Marketplace assisters
Government agencies, such as State Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Offices

Licensed insurance agents and brokers may also help you with your Marketplace application and choices.

Here’s how the Health Insurance Marketplace helps women

Healthcare.gov — Tue, 10 Sep 2013 00:00:00 -0400

We have good news for women who care about their health! You have new rights and protections in the Health Insurance Marketplace starting in 2014.

Here are 4 things for women to know about the Health Insurance Marketplace:

You won’t be charged more for health insurance just because you’re a woman.
You can’t be denied coverage or charged more due to pre-existing conditions, like cancer or being pregnant.
You can choose from any primary care provider, OB-GYN, or pediatrician in your health plan’s network without a referral.
You’ll get free preventive care like mammograms, well-woman visits, contraception, and more.

And remember, the Marketplace covers essential health benefits and may lower the cost of coverage for men AND women.

Are you looking forward to getting covered in 2014? Open enrollment begins on October 1, 2013 and coverage can start as soon as January 1.

3 ways to get covered if you’re under 30

Healthcare.gov — Mon, 09 Sep 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Sooner or later, everyone needs health insurance. This is true even if you’re healthy and under 30 like Jaime and Malik.

The Health Insurance Marketplace provides you with several options that put you in control of your coverage and care.

If you’re under 26, you may be able to get covered on a parent’s health insurance plan. This applies to you even if you are at school, not living at home, eligible for an employer’s plan, or not financially dependent on your parents. It even applies to you if you are married.
On your 26th birthday, your coverage on a parent’s plan ends. But you can still use the Health Insurance Marketplace to compare health insurance plans based on what’s important to you. When you apply for coverage in the Marketplace, you'll find out if you can get lower costs on your monthly premium and if you qualify for lower out-of-pocket costs. You’ll also find out if you qualify for free or low-cost coverage available through Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
If you’re under 30, you may be able to buy a special kind of health insurance plan that protects you from very high medical costs. These “catastrophic” plans usually have lower premiums and protect you from worst-case scenarios. In the Marketplace, catastrophic plans cover 3 doctor visits per year at no cost and free preventive benefits.

Are you looking forward to getting covered in 2014? Open enrollment begins on October 1, 2013 and coverage can start as soon as January 1.

How to find the health insurance plan that’s right for you

Healthcare.gov — Wed, 04 Sep 2013 00:00:00 -0400

The Health Insurance Marketplace is a new way for you to buy health insurance. In the Marketplace, there are 5 categories of health insurance plans based on how you and the plan can expect to share the costs of care.

Bronze: Your plan pays 60%. You pay 40%.
Silver: Your plan pays 70%. You pay 30%.
Gold: Your plan pays 80%. You pay 20%
Platinum: Your plan pays 90%. You pay 10%.
Catastrophic: Coverage option if you are under 30 or have very low income.

These sharing figures are approximate, and apply to sharing to the plan as a whole. Your costs for individual services will vary.

Top things to know about choosing a plan

Here are 6 things to consider before choosing a health insurance plan:

The category you choose affects how much your premium costs each month and what portion of the bill you pay for things like hospital visits or prescription medications. It also affects your total out-of-pocket costs.
Plans in all categories offer the same set of 10 essential health benefits and the categories do not reflect the quality of care the plans provide.
When choosing your health insurance plan, keep this general rule of thumb in mind: the lower the premium, the higher the out-of-pocket costs when you need care; the higher the premium, the lower the out-of-pocket costs when you need care.
Think about the health care needs of your household when considering which Marketplace insurance plan to buy. Are you likely to need a lot of care? Or a little?
If you can’t afford health insurance, you may be able to get lower costs on your monthly premium. You may qualify for lower out-of-pocket costs for copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
Other options like Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) may be available to you. The Marketplace also offers catastrophic plans to people under 30 years old and to some people with very low incomes.

Get ready for the Health Insurance Marketplace

When open enrollment starts on October 1, 2013, you’ll be able to apply, compare plans, and enroll in the Marketplace. Coverage starts as soon as January 1, 2014. Don’t wait, create your Marketplace account today!

Malik’s story: I’m young and I need health insurance

Healthcare.gov — Fri, 30 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Have you met Malik?

Malik is a 23 year old bartender and server who works in the restaurant industry.

He works on his feet all day and like millions of Americans, Malik does not have health insurance because he can’t afford it.

Can’t afford insurance. Can’t afford to miss work.

Malik shared his story with us:

“I hurt my foot pretty bad and I personally thought it was a fracture. I can’t afford to not go to work and not walk on it so I’ve just kind of struggled through it.

If I did have insurance, I would have gone to make sure that it wasn’t worse than I assumed it was.

Without insurance, a serious accident would pretty much turn my life upside down. It would probably set me back for life.

I feel like the Marketplace will help me achieve my goals. It’ll just be a load off my shoulders.”

How the Marketplace helps people like Malik

Malik may be able to get lower costs on a wide range of Marketplace health plans or he can purchase a “catastrophic” health plan available to people under 30.
In the Health Insurance Marketplace, 15 preventive health services will be available to keep him healthy at no additional cost. And because of the health care law, he may be able to stay on a parent’s plan until he turns 26.
Mailk will be able to apply for coverage, compare plans, and enroll using his computer. If he has questions, he’ll be able to get real-time help over the phone or via live web chat.

Share your story

Malik is looking forward to seeing his options and enrolling in the Marketplace as soon as it’s up and running.

Find out how health care is changing - in 214 words. And check out the Healthy Young America video contest. It is a chance for you to create a video, compete for prizes, and help other young Americans learn more about finding health coverage.

Watch a video about the contest. Entries are due September 23, 2013.
Share your thoughts in a Tweet using the hashtag #214words
Leave us a comment on Facebook in 14 words or less
Submit a comment below

And help us spread the word! Open enrollment begins on October 1, 2013. Coverage starts as soon as January 1, 2014.

4 ways the Health Insurance Marketplace keeps you healthy

Healthcare.gov — Tue, 27 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0400

You and your family may be eligible for free screenings, vaccines, counseling, and other preventive services to keep you healthy.

All health plans in the Health Insurance Marketplace and many other plans must cover the preventive services below without charging you a copayment or coinsurance. This applies even if you haven’t met your yearly deductible.

Preventive care for all adults: 15 preventive services
Preventive care for women: 22 preventive services
Preventive care for children: 25 preventive services
Medicare preventive care: 23 preventive services

Try these easy-to-use prevention and wellness tools

Learn more about prevention and find care when and where you need it:

Health Topics A to Z: Browse topics and use interactive tools to help you and your family stay healthy.

MyHealthFinder: Get personalized prevention and wellness recommendations.

Find Preventive Services Near You: Find a doctor, dentist, community health center, hospital, or other health care provider where you live.

Howard’s story: I can’t get health insurance

Healthcare.gov — Fri, 23 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Have you met Howard?

Howard is a self-employed software designer who needs health insurance.

He designs health care software and like millions of Americans, Howard has been denied health insurance coverage because of a pre-existing condition.

Uninsurable until 2014

Howard shared his story with us:

“Five years ago, I was diagnosed with Diabetes. Once you get that diagnosis, the insurance company says, ‘you’re uninsurable.’

To get access to medical care now, what I do is participate in clinical trials on diabetes. I’m one of the people who actually are guinea pigs for new drugs

Insurance companies want perfect people, which is totally impossible. Everybody is going to get something at some time.”

How the Marketplace helps people like Howard

Since Howard is self-employed, he will have more health coverage options in 2014.
Howard won't be denied coverage for a pre-existing condition or charged more because he is diabetic.
In the Health Insurance Marketplace, all plans will cover a set of 10 essential benefits including 15 preventive health services and chronic disease management.
Howard may be able to get lower costs on a wide range of Marketplace health plans.

Share your story

Howard is looking forward to getting covered and being able to choose the Marketplace health plan that meets his needs.

Find out how health care is changing - in 214 words. And tell us why health insurance is important to you. Are you looking forward to getting covered in 2014?

Share your thoughts in a Tweet using the hashtag #214words
Leave us a comment on Facebook in 14 words or less
Submit a comment below

And help us spread the word! Open enrollment begins on October 1, 2013. Coverage starts as soon as January 1, 2014.

10 health care benefits covered in the Health Insurance Marketplace

Healthcare.gov — Thu, 22 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Every health insurance plan sold in the Marketplace will offer 10 essential health benefits.

What’s covered in the Health Insurance Marketplace

These essential health benefits include at least the following items and services:

Outpatient care—the kind you get without being admitted to a hospital
Trips to the emergency room
Treatment in the hospital for inpatient care
Care before and after your baby is born
Mental health and substance use disorder services: This includes behavioral health treatment, counseling, and psychotherapy
Your prescription drugs
Services and devices to help you recover if you are injured, or have a disability or chronic condition. This includes physical and occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, psychiatric rehabilitation, and more.
Your lab tests
Preventive services including counseling, screenings, and vaccines to keep you healthy and care for managing a chronic disease.
Pediatric services: This includes dental care and vision care for kids

Specific health care benefits may vary by state. Even within the same state, there can be small differences between health insurance plans. When you fill out your application and compare plans, you’ll see the specific health care benefits each plan offers.

Get ready to enroll in the Health Insurance Marketplace

When open enrollment starts on October 1, 2013, you’ll be able to apply, compare plans, and enroll in the Marketplace. Coverage starts as soon as January 1, 2014.

Don’t wait, create your Marketplace account today!

Lupita’s story: I don’t have insurance

Healthcare.gov — Fri, 16 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Have you met Lupita?

Lupita is a single mother and a registered dental assistant who is worried about health insurance.

She works overtime to provide for her daughter and like millions of Americans, Lupita does not have health insurance because she can’t afford it.

Uninsured and making ends meet

Lupita shared her story with us:

"I work really hard as a single mom. When you have a nine-year old daughter, it can be wild getting her out of bed, getting her ready for school. It gets crazy.

I stay on the clock a little extra longer just to make sure that I have enough at the end of the month for both of us.”

Not having health insurance is something that stays on Lupita’s mind during the hustle and bustle of daily life – especially when she’s driving: “One car crash could cost everything. I could lose it all.”

How the Marketplace helps people like Lupita

Lupita will be able to apply for coverage, compare plans, and enroll through the Marketplace in her state. If she has questions, she’ll be able to get help along the way.
She may be able to get lower costs on her monthly premiums and she may qualify for lower out-of-pocket costs.
Or Lupita may be able to get free or low-cost coverage through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). In the Health Insurance Marketplace, most people who apply will qualify for lower costs of some kind.

Share your story

Lupita is looking forward to the one-stop shopping and lower costs that Marketplace coverage will provide.

Find out how health care is changing - in 214 words. And tell us why health insurance is important to you. Are you looking forward to getting covered in 2014?

Share your thoughts in a Tweet using the hashtag #214words
Leave us a comment on Facebook in 14 words or less
Submit a comment below

And help us spread the word! Open enrollment begins on October 1, 2013. Coverage starts as soon as January 1, 2014.

4 ways to protect yourself from fraud in the Health Insurance Marketplace

Healthcare.gov — Thu, 15 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Your best protection against fraud is you! Starting October 1, 2013, you can apply for health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace, on HealthCare.gov. A few simple things can protect you from fraud, while getting you the coverage you need.

If you suspect fraud, report it! Call the Health Insurance Marketplace consumer call center at 1-800-318-2596. TTY users should call 1-855-889-4325.

Jaime's story: Life without health insurance

Healthcare.gov — Thu, 08 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Have you met Jaime?

Jaime’s a 27-year-old college graduate who hasn’t been to the doctor since her 11th grade physical. She makes less than $20,000 a year. Like millions of Americans, Jaime does not have health insurance.

Sometimes you need more than a good night's sleep

Jaime shared her story with us:

"Every time I get sick, I get you know... If it can't be fixed with Advil, NyQuil and a good night's sleep I don't really have a solution for it.

Between all of the obligations I already have like utilities and rent and student loan payments, within my budget, there's no way I can afford health care.

If something bad happened to me... if I were in an accident or if I developed some kind of serious illness, there's no possible way I could afford it."

How the Marketplace helps people like Jaime

Jaime is looking forward to the peace of mind, safety, and stability that Marketplace coverage will provide.

In the Health Insurance Marketplace, all plans will cover a set of 10 essential benefits including access to 22 preventive health services for women.
Jaime won't be denied coverage for a pre-existing condition or charged more because she’s a woman.
She may be able to get lower costs on a wide range of Marketplace health plans or she can purchase a "catastrophic" health plan available to people under 30.

Share your story

Find out how health care is changing - in 214 words. And tell us why health insurance is important to you. Are you looking forward to getting covered in 2014?

Share your thoughts in a Tweet using the hashtag #214words
Leave us a comment on Facebook in 14 words or less
Submit a comment below

Help us spread the word! Open enrollment begins on October 1, 2013. Coverage starts as soon as January 1, 2014.

2014 in 214 words

Healthcare.gov — Wed, 07 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0400

There’s a lot to the health care law. But it’s based on a few simple principles, which we’ve described below in a mere 214 words. Follow the links for more details.

If you have health coverage you like, you can keep it. Children under 26 can stay on a parent’s health insurance plan.
If you don’t have coverage, you can use the new Health Insurance Marketplace to buy a private insurance plan.
Pre-existing conditions are covered. So are many preventive services and 10 essential health benefits.
Depending on your family size and income, you may get lower costs on monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
You may also qualify for free or low-cost coverage from Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Many states are expanding Medicaid to cover more people in 2014.
If you don’t have coverage in 2014 you’ll have to pay a fee. In 2014 it’s $95 per adult ($47.50 per child) or 1% of income, whichever is higher. The family max is $285.
If you have coverage and want to explore Marketplace plans, you can. But if you have an offer of insurance from an employer, you may not be able to get lower costs on Marketplace insurance based on your income. It depends on whether the insurance you’re offered is considered affordable and meets minimum standards.
Medicare isn’t part of the Marketplace. If you have Medicare, keep it.
Marketplace open enrollment starts October 1, 2013. It closes March 31, 2014.

Share your story

Now that we’ve told you about the health care law in 214 words, tell us why health insurance is important to you. Are you looking forward to getting covered in 2014?

See what Jaime, Lupita, Howard, Mailk, and Alejandra have to say.
Share your thoughts in a Tweet using the hashtag #GetCovered
Leave us a comment on Facebook in 14 words or less
Submit a comment below

And help us spread the word! Open enrollment begins on October 1, 2013. Coverage starts as soon as January 1, 2014.

A new way to SHOP for small business coverage and get help

Healthcare.gov — Mon, 05 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0400

The Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) is a new program that simplifies the process of buying health insurance for your small business. And now there’s a new way to get help with your health insurance questions– the Health Insurance Marketplace Small Employer call center.

Call us right now to get your SHOP and small business questions answered by a customer service representative at 1-800-706-7893 or (TTY: 1-800-706-7915 ). The call center is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST.

Why you should use the SHOP Marketplace

You can get high-quality coverage: All SHOP plans offer your employees a set of 10 comprehensive benefits. They cover things like pre-existing conditions, pregnancy, hospitalizations, doctor's visits, preventive care, prescriptions, and more.

You control coverage and costs: The SHOP Marketplace makes it easy to discover and compare your insurance options. You control the coverage you offer and how much you pay toward employee premiums. And you may qualify for a tax credit worth up to 50% of your premium costs.

Coverage is available in every state: No matter what state you do business in, you’ll have access to the SHOP Marketplace. In some states, you’ll use your state’s website to apply for coverage. In other cases you’ll use HealthCare.gov. Find the SHOP Marketplace that serves you.

For 2014, the SHOP Marketplace is open to employers with 50 or fewer full-time-equivalent employees (FTEs). Self-employed? You won’t use SHOP, you’ll use the Health Insurance Marketplace for individuals & families.

Get help when you need it

Want to learn more about SHOP before you call? Just answer a few quick questions and we’ll provide you with a customized list of coverage options for your business, content tailored to your situation, and a checklist to help you get ready.

Still have questions? Call us at 1-800-706-7893 or (TTY: 1-800-706-7915 )

What do you think of these new features? Let us know how we can serve you better in the comments section below.

Get ready for the Health Insurance Marketplace: Create an account

Healthcare.gov — Tue, 30 Jul 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Open enrollment in the Health Insurance Marketplace begins on October 1, but in the meantime you can create a Health Insurance Marketplace account on HealthCare.gov right now to get ready.

How to create your Health Insurance Marketplace account

Get started in 3 easy steps:

Provide some basic information like your name, address, and email address
Choose a user name and password
Create security questions for added protection

Create your Marketplace account today!

You won’t be able to start your application for Marketplace insurance until October 1. But by creating an account now you’ll be one step closer to applying for coverage in the Health Insurance Marketplace, comparing plans side-by-side, and enrolling in a plan.

Remember that you can apply for coverage and enroll as soon as October 1, 2013.

After you’ve set up your account, make sure to tell your family and friends to set up an account too. And don’t forget to connect with us on social media.

Questions? Call 1-800-318-2596, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. TTY users should call 1-855-889-4325.

7 ways to save in the Health Insurance Marketplace

Healthcare.gov — Thu, 25 Jul 2013 00:00:00 -0400

There are several ways you can save money in the Health Insurance Marketplace. How you save, and how much you save, depends on several things, including family size and income.

You may be able to get lower costs on your monthly premiums when you enroll in a Marketplace health insurance plan.
You may qualify for lower out-of-pocket costs for copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
You or your child may get free or low-cost coverage through Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
You can’t be charged more for a pre-existing condition or because you are a woman.
You may be able to be covered on your parent’s insurance plan if you’re under 26.
You may be able to buy a lower-premium “catastrophic” coverage plan, if you’re under 30.
Small businesses may qualify for the expanded small business health care tax credit.

How will I know what I qualify for?

When you fill out your Health Insurance Marketplace application, you’ll find out how much you can save and what coverage you’ll qualify for. Here are some important things to know about getting lower costs on coverage:

Most people who apply will qualify for some kind of savings.
Open enrollment starts October 1, 2013 and coverage starts as soon as January 1, 2014.
Marketplace plans and prices will be available on October 1.

In the meantime, answer a few quick questions and we’ll provide you with a personalized list of programs you may be eligible for, content you’ll want to read, and a checklist to help you get ready.

Questions? Call 1-800-318-2596, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. (TTY: 1-855-889-4325)

Answers to your top health insurance questions

Healthcare.gov — Wed, 24 Jul 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Since we launched the new HealthCare.gov on June 21st, we’ve received thousands of questions and comments on the website, through the call center, and on our social media channels.

We’re listening and we value your feedback!

Here’s some new content visitors have asked for that answers important questions about dental care, breastfeeding, and coverage for part-time employees:

Can I get dental care in the Marketplace? In the Health Insurance Marketplace, you generally can get dental coverage as part of a health plan or by itself through a separate, stand-alone dental plan. Learn more about dental care »
What are my breastfeeding benefits? The health care law requires most health insurance plans to provide breastfeeding equipment and counseling for pregnant and nursing women. Learn more about breastfeeding »
What if I’m a part-time employee without health coverage? If you’re a part-time worker without job-based coverage, you may be able to buy health insurance in the Marketplace and get lower costs based on your income. Learn more about coverage for part-time employees »

Help us make HealthCare.gov better

We want to keep making the site better. We need your help to do that. Tell us what you think by leaving a comment below. Or look for the little “Was this helpful?” box on the bottom of most pages and provide feedback that way.

Have more questions? Call us at 1-800-318-2596

Our mission is to help you understand your new health coverage options so you can enroll in a plan that works for you and your family. You can call us to get your Marketplace questions answered by a customer service representative, available 24/7:

1-800-318-2596 or (TTY: 1-855-889-4325)
Online chat, also available 24/7. Just look for the blue box on the lower right hand corner on most pages of our site.

Questions? Call us at 1-800-318-2596

Healthcare.gov — Mon, 22 Jul 2013 00:00:00 -0400

We know you’ve got questions about the new Health Insurance Marketplace. We’ve received thousands of them over the past month.

Answering your questions is central to our mission:

We launched the new HealthCare.gov to feature an easy-to-understand question and answer format, with content based on the most common questions we hear from you.
We provided you with new way get your health insurance options and info—just answer a few quick questions and we’ll provide you with a personalized list of coverage options, content tailored to your situation, and a checklist to help you get ready.

Get help when you need it

Call us right now to get your Marketplace questions answered by a customer service representative, available 24/7:

1-800-318-2596 or (TTY: 1-855-889-4325)
Online chat, also available 24/7. Just look for the blue box on the lower right hand corner on most pages of our site.
Visit our Help Center to get all of our help resources in one place.

What do you think of these new features? Let us know how we can serve you better in the comments section below.

You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers.

Healthcare.gov — Wed, 10 Jul 2013 00:00:00 -0400

We know there are lots of questions surrounding the new Health Insurance Marketplace coming in 2014. That’s why we’ve updated HealthCare.gov with you - the consumer - in mind.

Get to Know the Marketplace: We’re holding our first-ever Health Insurance Marketplace Hangout at 2:30pm on July 10, 2013. And we’re taking your questions using the hashtag #HCgovHangout. Visit HealthCare.gov on Google+ to learn more.

Get Answers Right Away: There’s a new way for you to learn about the Health Insurance Marketplace and your coverage options. Just answer a few quick questions and we’ll provide you with a personalized list of programs you may be eligible for, content you’ll want to read, and a checklist to help you get ready. Note: Specific plans and prices won’t be available until October 1. Start Now

New Q&A format: Every article is written in an easy-to-understand question and answer format. If there are related questions or articles, you can find them all on one page. Our content is based on the questions we hear most often. We’ll be adding new content as new questions come in.

Help us make HealthCare.gov better

At the bottom of most pages you’ll see a yellow “Was this helpful?” box. You can use this quick survey to tell us if we’re answering your questions. Most importantly, you can tell us how we can improve our content.

Connect with us

Here are a few more ways you can provide feedback or learn more:

Share your thoughts with @HealthCareGov on Twitter
Leave a comment or share our content on Facebook
Share or comment on a HealthCare.gov video on YouTube
We’re now taking comments on this blog—leave a comment below right now and let us know what you think.

You’ll find links to all of these and more ways to reach out to us on our Connect page.

Check it out, and stay in touch.

Welcome to the new HealthCare.gov!

Healthcare.gov — Fri, 21 Jun 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Health insurance is changing in important ways in 2014. We’ve updated HealthCare.gov to help you get ready for those changes, especially one of the most important: the opening of the new Health Insurance Marketplace.

Answering your questions about health coverage

Our mission is to help you understand your new health coverage options so you can enroll in a plan that works for you and your family. If you run a small business, we’ll help you find a plan that works for you and your employees. Self-employed? We’ve got that covered too.

New features include:

The most important health insurance info at your fingertips—just answer a few quick questions and we’ll provide you with a personalized list of coverage options, content tailored to your situation, and a checklist to help you get ready
An easy-to-understand question and answer format, with content based on the most common questions we hear
A simpler site structure and powerful search features that make it easy to find what you’re looking for
A seamless HealthCare.gov experience on your mobile device, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer
A new 800 number you can call to get your Marketplace questions answered by a customer service representative, available 24/7: 1-800-318-2596 (TTY: 1-855-889-4325)
Online chat, also available 24/7. Just look for the blue box on the lower right hand corner on most pages of our site. You’ll be connected to a customer service representative who can answer your questions in an online conversation

When open enrollment starts on October 1, 2013, you’ll be able to use this site to apply, compare plans, and enroll. (Your state may be running the Marketplace where you live. If it does, you'll use your state website, not this one, to apply for coverage. Find out the status in your state.)

Coverage starts as soon as January 1, 2014.

Looking for something?

When we rebuilt HealthCare.gov, we moved some things you used to find here. If you're looking for technical Marketplace information, resources for organizations, press materials, or other information about the Affordable Care Act, visit these sites:

HHS.gov/HealthCare: For information about the benefits and progress of the health care law
HHS Newsroom: For news releases, contacts, other information for the media
Marketplace.CMS.gov: For brochures, collateral material, outreach and training materials
CMS.gov/CCIIO: For regulations, policy, and guidance from the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight
HealthCare.gov Archive: Includes all material formerly found on HealthCare.gov, captured at weekly intervals.
Finder.HealthCare.gov: This tool can help you find health insurance coverage if you need it before 2014.

Help us make HealthCare.gov better

We especially need to hear about what’s not working, and about topics you need more information on. We look forward to hearing from you.

Introducing the Health Insurance Marketplace

Healthcare.gov — Fri, 21 Jun 2013 00:00:00 -0400

If you’re uninsured, there’s a new way for you to buy health insurance for 2014. It’s called the Health Insurance Marketplace.

Getting covered in the Health Insurance Marketplace

No matter where you live, you can use the Marketplace to find a high-quality health plan and enroll to get coverage. With one application you can compare plans based on price, benefits, and other important features before you decide. You’ll also see if you qualify to save money on monthly premiums or out-of-pocket costs—or for free or low-cost health coverage options.

Here are the key dates you need to know:

October 1, 2013: Open enrollment in the Marketplace starts
January 1, 2014: Coverage for Marketplace insurance plans can start
March 31, 2014: Open enrollment ends

We can help you get ready & apply

Right now, you can use HealthCare.gov to:

Find out about the Health Insurance Marketplace in your state
See if you are eligible for Marketplace coverage
See if you qualify for Medicaid or CHIP
Learn how to get ready for open enrollment

In October, you’ll be able to:

Compare coverage options and choose a plan that works for you
See if you can save on your monthly premiums or out-of-pocket costs
Start an online application and enroll in a Marketplace coverage plan

In the meantime, answer a few quick questions to get a personalized list of programs you may be eligible for, content you’ll want to read, and a checklist to help you get ready.

Comments or questions about the Marketplace? Leave a comment below.

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Have more questions? Call us at 1-800-318-2596

Questions? Call us at 1-800-318-2596

Get help when you need it

You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers.

Help us make HealthCare.gov better

Connect with us

Welcome to the new HealthCare.gov!

Answering your questions about health coverage

Looking for something?

Help us make HealthCare.gov better

Introducing the Health Insurance Marketplace

Getting covered in the Health Insurance Marketplace

We can help you get ready & apply