Having health insurance is one of the best protections you and your family can have. The ability to get health insurance through the Federal Health Insurance Marketplace has not changed. So, don’t wait! There are only 45 days for enrollment. Open enrollment begins November 1 and ends December 15, 2019 for your 2020 coverage, which will start January 1, 2020.
- All Marketplace insurance plans cover ER services, doctor and hospital charges, pregnancy, treatment for all pre-existing conditions, mental health and substance abuse services, lab work, and other essential health benefits.
- If your income is between 100% and 400% of the 2019 Federal Poverty Level you will qualify for a premium tax credit that can lower your monthly premium. For a single person, that is income between $17,236 and $49,960. For a family of four, that is income between $35,535 and $103,000. The lower your income, the less you will pay each month.
- If you are eligible for health insurance through your employer, then you are not eligible for tax credits through the Marketplace, unless you can prove that you cannot afford your employer’s insurance.
- If your income changes during the year, you should report it to the Marketplace as soon as possible. It may result in an adjustment to your monthly premiums.
- There is no longer a penalty for not having health insurance starting for the 2019 tax year.
- If you currently have Marketplace health insurance, you should still compare current plans during Open Enrollment and make sure that your doctors’ offices take your insurance.
Remember: Berks Community Health Center offers FREE help with the Health Insurance Marketplace to the public. Call (484)772-4080 to make an appointment with a certified insurance navigator.
By Jen Bauman
Outreach Manager
Berks Community Health Center
