The open enrollment period for Affordable Care Act health insurance is approaching, with over 45 million people currently enrolled in ACA plans – the highest rate on record. The enrollment period for 2024 begins on Nov. 1, 2024, and lasts until Jan. 15, 2025. During this time, eligible individuals can enroll in a new plan or make changes to their current coverage. Changes made by Dec. 15, 2024, will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2025, while changes made after that will be effective on Feb. 1, 2025. To be eligible for ACA health insurance, individuals must be residing in the US, be a US citizen or national, lawfully present noncitizen, and not incarcerated.
To sign up for Affordable Care Act health insurance, individuals can visit an official ACA online Marketplace website during the open enrollment period or following a qualifying life event. The Healthcare.gov website offers a drop-down menu where individuals can select their state or territory to begin the enrollment process. Some states and Washington, DC, have their own Marketplace websites, while residents of other states and territories can enroll directly through Healthcare.gov. Resources are available on Healthcare.gov to help individuals prepare for enrollment, including a checklist of required materials and steps to estimate current income. While there is no income limit for ACA insurance, individuals with lower incomes may qualify for cheaper coverage.
It is important to note that individuals with Medicare coverage cannot sign up for Marketplace health or dental insurance plans. Along with the Affordable Care Act enrollment period, the Department of Health and Human Services found that over 45 million people had insurance through the ACA based on data collected in 2023 and early 2024. This highlights the significant portion of the US population that relies on the ACA for health coverage. In addition to the enrollment period, individuals can explore telemedicine options and learn how those without health insurance can save money on care. Healthcare.gov provides valuable information and resources to support individuals in understanding and navigating the ACA enrollment process.
Overall, the upcoming open enrollment period for Affordable Care Act health insurance offers individuals the opportunity to enroll in a new plan or make changes to their current coverage. Eligibility requirements include residency in the US, US citizenship, lawful presence as a noncitizen, and not being incarcerated. By visiting the official ACA online Marketplace website, individuals can create an account, select their state or territory, and begin the enrollment process. Additional resources on Healthcare.gov assist individuals in preparing for enrollment, including a checklist of required materials and steps to estimate income. The ACA enrollment period is an important time for individuals to secure health coverage and access needed care.
