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Need health insurance coverage for 2016? You have until January 15, 2016 to enroll in or change plans for 2016 health insurance starting on February 1, 2016.

New to the Marketplace?

Already have a Marketplace plan?





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If you enrolled in or changed Marketplace health plans by December 17, 2015, your coverage will start January 1, 2016.

Important: After you’ve picked a new plan for 2016, you must complete one very important task to finish enrolling — you must pay your first month’s premium to your insurance company, not HealthCare.gov.

If you picked a new plan or enrolled for the first time and already paid your first month’s premium, your enrollment is complete. If you haven’t paid it yet, don’t delay.

Final step: Pay your premium to complete your enrollment

You must pay your first month’s premium by your health plan’s due date or you could lose your coverage. Each insurer is different, so pay careful attention to their due date.

You may be able to pay online. After you enroll in a plan at HealthCare.gov, you’ll be taken to your Enroll-To-Do list. If you see a green button that says “PAY FOR HEALTH PLAN,” your insurer accepts online payment. You’ll be taken to their payment portal when you click it.

Screen shot of Enroll-To-Do-List displaying the "Pay for your health plan" button.

If the button is grayed out, your insurer doesn’t accept online payment. Your insurer will contact you within a few days after you enroll with next steps and details on how to pay.

Need help?



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The time to take action is now! The December 15, 2015 deadline to sign up for a Health Insurance Marketplace plan (so your coverage can start January 1, 2016) is quickly approaching. Be sure to apply and enroll today, so you don’t miss a day of being covered.

Plans may cost less than you think

This year, 8 out of 10 people who enroll in health coverage through HealthCare.gov qualify for savings that lower the cost of their monthly premiums. In fact, most people can find plans with premiums for less than $75 a month after tax credits.

Get covered or pay a fee

If you don’t have health coverage for 2016, you may have to pay a fee on your taxes. And for 2016, that penalty is increasing to $695 or 2.5% of your income — whichever is higher.

How to sign up today



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Did you know that having health insurance when you can afford it is the law? If you can afford health insurance, but choose not to get it for 2016, you may be required to pay a fee — sometimes called the "penalty," "fine," or "individual mandate" — when you file your 2016 federal income taxes.

The good news is, affordable coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace is available. After financial help, 7 out of 10 people can find plans with premiums of less than $75 dollars per month. If you enroll by December 15, 2015, your coverage will start January 1, 2016.

Want to see plans and prices available to you before you apply? You can preview 2016 plans and prices here — you may be surprised to learn just how affordable health insurance can be.

Breaking it down: the fee

Here are 5 quick facts about the fee for not having health coverage when you can afford it:

  1. The fee is calculated 1 of 2 ways, depending on your situation. It’s either a percentage of your annual household income or a set amount for each person in your household who doesn’t have health insurance. When you file your federal income taxes, if you’re uninsured for more than 3 months despite having access to affordable coverage, you’ll be required to pay whichever amount is higher. Learn how to estimate the fee you’ll have to pay if you don’t have health insurance based on your situation.
  2. The fee is increasing for 2016. For 2015, the penalty for no health insurance is $325 per person or 2% of your annual household income – whichever is higher. For 2016, the fee is $695 or 2.5% of your income — whichever is higher. For many people, that’s more than the yearly cost of health plans they can find on HealthCare.gov.
  3. Every month without coverage counts. The fee is calculated based on the number of months you and your household went without qualifying coverage. The more months you go without health coverage, the higher the fee, up to the maximum. (But if you’re uncovered for only 1 or 2 consecutive months, you don’t have to pay the fee at all.)
  4. For some people, exemptions from the fee are available. People with very low incomes and those who meet other specific conditions can get an exemption from the requirement to have health insurance and won’t have to pay the fee. Learn more exemptions, and see if you qualify.
  5. You have until January 31 to enroll in a 2016 plan to avoid the fee. The final deadline to sign up for 2016 coverage is January 31. A Special Enrollment Period around the April 15 tax filing deadline won’t be offered in 2016. If you don’t enroll by then, you could have to wait another year to get coverage and may have to pay the fee when you file your 2016 income taxes.

Ready to apply and avoid the fee?

Start an application or log in to an existing application.



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Put this at the top of your December “to do” list: get health coverage and the peace of mind that comes with it. Don’t miss a day of being covered.

Important: You have until December 15, 2015 to sign up so your coverage can start January 1, 2016. That’s less than 2 weeks away.

Plans may cost less than you think — 8 out of 10 people who enroll in health coverage through HealthCare.gov qualify for financial help to lower the cost of their monthly premiums. In fact, most people can find plans with premiums for less than $75 a month after tax credits.

Remember: If you don’t have health coverage or an exemption for 2016, you’ll probably have to pay a fee on your taxes. And for 2016, that penalty is higher than ever.

Get started today



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To find the Marketplace health insurance plan that works best for your family, you should consider many different factors like the premium, the yearly deductible, what services are covered, and other details. While premiums can often be a deciding factor, other considerations could be just as important.

Breaking it down: the deductible

A deductible, is the amount you owe for the health care services your plan covers before your health insurance plan begins to pay.

Here are 5 things to know about deductibles in Marketplace plans:

  1. All Marketplace plans cover recommended preventive services without a deductible. Services like cancer screening, immunizations, and well-child visits will always be covered without having to pay your deductible, any copayment, or other costs to you.
  2. Many other health services are often covered without a deductible. Many health insurance plans provide some benefits before you meet the deductible. In those plans, you may be able to visit your primary care doctor or fill a prescription for a generic drug and only pay a copayment. Even specialist visits, mental health outpatient services, and brand name drugs are often covered with no deductible, although you’ll still be responsible for copayment or coinsurance.
  3. Look to see what your plan covers without a deductible. Plans differ in what they cover. When you find a plan you like online, look at the “costs for medical care” to see which services have a deductible and which don’t. You can also click on a plan’s "Summary of Benefits and Coverage" to see a detailed explanation of how the plan deductible applies to different services, and see examples for certain kinds of care.
  4. Consider services covered without a deductible along with other out-of-pocket costs when choosing the plan that’s right for you. It’s important to understand what your insurance company covers without requiring you to pay your deductible. Then you can decide whether you want a plan with lower monthly premiums and a higher deductible, or one with a higher monthly premium and a lower deductible. When you preview 2016 insurance plans, you’ll see an estimate of your total out-of-pocket costs, including deductibles and copayments, to help you make this decision.
  5. Silver plans can save you more. If you qualify for cost sharing reductions — as most consumers who sign up for Marketplace policies do — you can save more. A family of 4 with income below $60,625 can qualify for additional savings with lower copayments, a lower deductible, and more services covered with no deductible at all. This financial assistance is only available if you purchase a Silver plan; so while a Silver plan may have monthly premiums that are higher than some other plan options, be sure to consider your total costs. If you qualify, your maximum annual out-of-pocket costs could be lowered by thousands of dollars, and your deductible could be lowered as well. Check to see if you qualify for these savings.

Ready to apply?



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When you apply for health coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace, you’ll find out if you qualify for savings. You may be eligible for a "premium tax credit" to lower the cost of your monthly premium. You also may be eligible for "cost-sharing reductions" — discounts that lower what you’ll pay out of your own pocket for medical care.

Important: You can use a premium tax credit for a Marketplace health plan in any "category". However, if you qualify for cost-sharing reductions, you’ll only get these extra savings if you enroll in a Marketplace health plan in the Silver category.

Why choose Silver?

If you qualify for cost-sharing reductions, a Silver plan may be the best overall value. Even if your monthly premium is higher than some other plan options, additional benefits could save you more down the road, like:

  • You’ll have a lower deductible with a Silver plan. This means the insurance company starts paying its share sooner. As an example, a Silver plan may start paying after you spend $300 on medical services yourself, compared to $750 if you enrolled in a plan in a different category.
  • You’ll have lower copayments or coinsurance — like $15 per doctor’s visit instead of $30 you might pay with another plan type.
  • Your total costs out of pocket might be lower too, if you need a lot of care in a year.

So with a Silver plan, your "total cost of care" — when you add up your premium, your deductible, and other out-of-pocket costs — may be significantly lower. This means you’ll save a lot of money overall.

Learn more about how to save on out-of-pocket costs with a Silver plan.

Ready to apply?



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The Health Insurance Marketplace is open for business. You may be surprised to find out how affordable health insurance can be.

Get affordable health insurance today. Average $270 tax credit/month for most; plans for $75 or less after tax credits.

  • Last year, 8 in 10 Marketplace consumers received an average tax credit of $270 per month.
  • This year, more than 7 in 10 current Marketplace enrollees could find plans for $75 or less per month after tax credits.
  • 86% of current Marketplace enrollees could save money — an average of $50 per month and $610 annually before tax credits for the same level of health insurance coverage — if they return to the Marketplace to shop.

See how much you could save now

Get a preview of 2016 health insurance plans, with prices based on your income. You don’t have to create an account or even provide your name.

Ready to apply?

Start an application or log in to an existing application.



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Starting today, you can apply for a 2016 health plan, renew your current plan, or pick a new plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

  • New to the Marketplace? You can preview 2016 health insurance plans and prices before you apply. You’ll see premiums based on your estimated income. Remember, most people qualify for financial help with their premium costs.
  • Have a 2015 Marketplace plan? You can compare 2016 health plans and prices to your current coverage, update your application with any household or income changes, and enroll in a plan. New and more affordable health plans may be available this year, so don’t miss out on savings for 2016.

Get started

IMPORTANT If you want your new or updated health insurance coverage to start January 1, you must enroll or change plans by December 15. This way you won’t have a break in coverage. You can change your plan any time during Open Enrollment, which ends January 31, 2016.



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Flu season is here, and getting a flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your family from this potentially serious disease. If you’re covered by a health plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace, you and your family can get free flu shots from a doctor or other provider in your plan’s network.

Flu season is here, and getting a flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself

Flu shots aren’t the only preventive health service covered by Marketplace plans. All health plans sold through the Marketplace cover a set of preventive health care services at no cost to you when delivered by a network provider – including some screenings, check-ups, patient counseling, and wellness services.

So be sure to take advantage of the free preventive services offered by the Marketplace. Not covered yet? You can enroll in a 2016 plan starting November 1.

Learn more about the flu and preventive care services from the CDC.



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Your privacy is serious business. That’s why we always make sure we have important safeguards in place to protect the information you provide when you visit HealthCare.gov.

We’ve now introduced a tool that lets you easily control some of the information we may collect from you.

Simple “on” and “off” settings

As visitors use HealthCare.gov, we use common web tools to collect information – what websites they arrive from, what HealthCare.gov pages they visit, how much time they spend, where they exit the site, and similar actions. We analyze data from all users, not individuals. We use it only to help us improve the site and our outreach to the public. We never sell it or share it with unauthorized parties.

But if you like, you can opt out of allowing us to collect this information during your visits. Our new Privacy Manager lets you easily adjust settings to meet your comfort level.

All you have to do is select “on” or “off” for tracking certain types of information about your site visits. If you choose to opt-out, you’ll still have access to everything on HealthCare.gov, but we won’t use your visit to improve the site or use digital advertising to remind you about helpful information like deadlines.

Read our privacy policy



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Starting November 1, you can enroll, re-enroll, or change plans through the Health Insurance Marketplace for 2016.

FYI 2016 plans and prices will be available to preview by the third week in October.

Take a few minutes to get ready now so you’ll be off to a great start when you log in as soon as November 1.

First time applying through the Health Insurance Marketplace?

Have a 2015 Marketplace health plan?

  • Learn the 5 steps to staying covered (PDF).
  • Note: It’s really important to log in to HealthCare.gov as soon as November 1 and update your application with any income and household changes you expect for 2016. New health coverage plans and prices that work better for you may be available this year. Also, updating your information is the only way to make sure you get the right amount of premium tax credit. So be sure to update – even if you expect to keep the same plan.
  • Learn more about why it’s important to update your income and household information and compare plans.


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If you’ve had any changes to your household income, it’s important to let the Marketplace know as soon as possible. Your new income can affect the health coverage or savings you’re eligible for. Annual Household Income changes? Report them to the Marketplace ASAP

If your taxable income goes down: You could qualify for more savings than you’re getting now. This could lower the amount you pay in monthly premiums. You could also qualify to save on out-of-pocket costs, like deductibles and copayments. Or you might qualify for free or low-cost coverage through Medicaid or CHIP coverage instead of a Marketplace insurance plan.

If your taxable income goes up: You may qualify for less savings than you’re getting now. If you don’t report the household income changes very soon, you may have to pay money back when you file your 2015 income taxes.

We’ve just improved the way you update your annual household income on your Marketplace application, so it’s easier than ever.

Just follow these steps:

  • Log in to your Marketplace account and select your 2015 application
  • Select "Report a life change" from the menu on the left
  • Select the "Report a life change" button and update your income
  • Follow the steps to verify your application information and confirm your plan selection

Important health insurance tip: You have to click all the way through to the last screen in order for your changes to take effect.

Ready to update your income? Log in now.



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With 2016 Open Enrollment starting November 1, it’s a great time to sign up for reminders and updates from the Health Insurance Marketplace about 2016 coverage.

Stay informed... on the go. Sign up for HealthCare.gov text and email reminders

It’s easy — just fill out a quick form to get emails, and follow us on social media. After you’re signed up, we’ll tell you about upcoming changes, deadlines, and new features. Plus, we’ll let you know as soon as 2016 health plans and prices are available to preview.

Here are 3 simple ways to stay connected:

  1. Sign up for email and text reminders.
  2. Follow us on Twitter.
  3. Like us on Facebook.


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Wonder if you qualify for savings on health insurance?

We’ve created a quick and easy tool to help. Just enter your state and the number of people in your household.

We’ll show you which of these savings programs you qualify for, based on your income estimate:

  • A premium tax credit you can use to lower your monthly premium for a Marketplace health insurance plan
  • A premium tax credit for a Marketplace insurance plan plus savings on out-of-pocket health care costs (like deductibles and copayments)
  • Free or low-cost coverage through Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

See if you qualify for savings

Note: The income information shown is for 2015 coverage. 2016 amounts will be available November 1.



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There are many options for health insurance for young adults. You can:

  • Get covered by a parent's health insurance plan.
  • Buy your own Marketplace insurance, with savings based on your income.
  • Buy a catastrophic health plan — a type of insurance that has a low monthly premium but mainly protects you from worst-case scenarios.
  • Get free or low-cost health coverage through Medicaid.

We know you're busy. So we’ve created an easy way to find out what applies to you. Just answer a few fast questions to get a personalized 1-page coverage guide that’ll help you make a coverage decision that's right for you.

Get your personalized health coverage guide.



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If you’re getting ready to head back to college, don’t forget about putting one of the most important things on your college must-have list: health coverage. Health Coverage for College Students

Getting health coverage may be easier and cheaper than you think. And as a college student, you have several options:

  • Student health plans may be available if you’re in college. If you’re covered by your school’s student health plan, in most cases, you’re considered covered under the health care law and you won’t have to pay the fee that people without coverage must generally pay.
  • You may be able to stay covered under your parent’s health plan until you turn 26.
  • If you’re under 30, you can buy a Catastrophic health plan to protect yourself from worst-case scenarios.
  • You can enroll in a 2016 Health Insurance Marketplace plan starting on November 1, 2015. Most people qualify for financial help to lower premium costs. All Marketplace plans must cover essential health benefits and may even offer other benefits, like contraceptive services. They’ll also help protect you from high costs if you have an accident or get sick.
  • You may qualify for Medicaid, a combined state and federal program that provides coverage to people with limited income. When you apply for Marketplace coverage, you’ll find out if you qualify for coverage through Medicaid.

School can be stressful enough, so give yourself the peace of mind that comes with having health insurance. For more information, visit http://ift.tt/1LocubJ.



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Summer is the most popular season for moving. But there are some things you can’t pack in boxes — like the peace of mind you get from having health insurance. Health Insurance Options When Moving

Moving can be stressful, but enrolling in a health plan that suits your new life doesn’t have to be. If you’re moving, whether out of state or within your current state, you may be able to get Marketplace health insurance coverage with a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). This means you can enroll in or change your plan outside the annual Open Enrollment Period. In most cases, you’ll have 60 days from your move date to enroll in new coverage or change your plan.

Depending on where you move, you may have new options, prices, and savings available to you.

Not sure if you qualify? Answer a few quick questions and we’ll tell you if you qualify and explain how to apply and enroll.

Note: Moving isn’t the only life change that qualifies you for a Special Enrollment Period. You may also be eligible if you’ve experienced other life changes — like if you got married, had a baby, or lost coverage you had from your job.



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No one plans to get sick or hurt, but most people need medical care – like a doctor visit, a prescription drug, a lab test, physical therapy, or counseling – at some point. These services can be expensive.

And if something happens that requires surgery or emergency medical care, it’s really important to have coverage. Fixing a broken leg can cost up to $7,500, and the average cost of a 3-day hospital stay is around $30,000.

The Health Insurance Marketplace offers a variety of high-quality health coverage choices for routine and non-routine medical services that can work for your family and budget.

Benefits even before you meet your deductible

  • In the Marketplace, all plans cover some services – like preventive care and well-woman visits – for free.
  • Some plans offer other health insurance benefits – like reduced price generic drugs and free disease management programs.
  • If you get medical services from a provider in your plan’s network, you’ll pay lower prices than you would without insurance. That can save you hundreds of dollars per year.

What Marketplace health plans cover

One of the benefits of health insurance through the Marketplace is that all health insurance plans cover the same set of essential health benefits, even for a pre-existing health condition. In addition to coverage for doctor visits, lab tests, hospitalization, surgery, and emergency care, here are a few more:

Additional coverage

There may be additional benefits of health insurance through the Marketplace, like plans that offer dental and vision coverage, and coverage for chiropractic or acupuncture services. You’ll see exactly what each plan offers when you compare them side-by-side in the Marketplace.

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If you have a health plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace and will soon have Medicare eligibility, it’s not too soon to start planning for your coverage to switch.

If you have a Marketplace plan now, you can keep it until your Medicare coverage starts. Then, you can cancel the Marketplace plan without penalty.

When to apply for Medicare

Once Medicare eligibility begins, you’ll have a 7 month Initial Enrollment Period to sign up. For most people, this is 3 months before, the month of, and 3 months after their 65th birthday.

It’s important to sign up for Medicare when you’re first eligible because once your Medicare Part A coverage starts, you’ll have to pay full price for a Marketplace plan. This means you’ll no longer be eligible to use any premium tax credit or help with costs you might have been getting with your Marketplace plan. Also, if you enroll in Medicare after your Initial Enrollment Period, you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty. It’s important to coordinate the date your Marketplace coverage ends with the effective date of your Medicare enrollment, to make sure you don’t have a break in coverage.

How to cancel your Marketplace coverage

If you’re the only person on your Marketplace application, you can cancel the whole application.

If you and your spouse (or other household members) are enrolled on the same Marketplace plan, but you’re the only one eligible for Medicare, you’ll cancel Marketplace coverage for just yourself. This way any others on the Marketplace application can keep Marketplace coverage. Find out how here.

Learn more about transitioning from the Marketplace to Medicare coverage.



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Medicare and Medicaid celebrate 50 years on July 30th!

In 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed Medicaid and Medicare into law. Medicare and Medicaid began as basic insurance programs for Americans without health insurance. Over the years they have continued to evolve, becoming the standard bearers for quality and innovation providing even more Americans with quality and affordable care.

The Affordable Care Act has strengthened both programs.

  • Under the health care law, Medicare benefits have expanded. Things like free preventive benefits, certain cancer screenings, and an annual wellness visit are now covered. You can also save money if you’re in the prescription drug “donut hole” with discounts on brand-name prescription drugs.

  • The health care law also provides states with additional federal funding to expand their Medicaid programs. In states that choose to expand Medicaid, free or low-cost health coverage is available to all people with household incomes below a certain level.

Medicare and the Marketplace

Medicare provides health coverage for people 65 and older, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease.

Here are a few things to know about Medicare and the Marketplace:

  • Medicare isn’t part of the Health Insurance Marketplace, so if you have Medicare coverage you don’t need to do anything. If you have Medicare, you’re considered covered.

  • If you’re under 65 and don’t have health coverage, you can enroll in a Marketplace plan. Once your Medicare coverage starts, you can end the Marketplace plan without penalty.

Get more information on Medicare and the Marketplace.

Medicaid and the Marketplace

When you fill out a Marketplace application, you’ll also learn if you qualify for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

  • Medicaid and CHIP provide free or low-cost health coverage to millions of Americans, including some low-income people, families and children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Both programs are run jointly by federal and state governments.

  • You may qualify for these programs based on your household size, income, and other factors, like age and disability. You can enroll and apply any time of year.

  • Some states have expanded their Medicaid programs to cover all people with household incomes below a certain level. See if your state has expanded coverage and what this means for you.

  • Note: Even if your state hasn't expanded Medicaid, you should apply for coverage to see if you qualify.

Learn how to apply for Medicaid coverage.

Medicare and Medicaid make America healthier

Medicare and Medicaid save lives, help people live longer, and provide the peace of mind that comes with affordable health care.

If Medicare or Medicaid have improved your life or the life of someone you care about, share your story through Medicare.gov, Twitter, or the Medicare Facebook page.



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You’ve got questions; we’ve got answers. Read these 5 questions to learn more about dental coverage in the Health Insurance Marketplace. Dental coverage in the Health Insurance Marketplace

  1. Can I get dental coverage through the Marketplace? In the Marketplace, dental coverage is included in some health plans. You can also get a stand-alone plan and pay a separate premium.

  2. How do I add dental coverage to my Marketplace plan? You can buy a dental plan through the federal Marketplace only when you enroll in a health plan at the same time. If you’re already enrolled in a Marketplace plan, you can’t add on dental coverage. You have to wait until the next Open Enrollment Period to change health plans to one that includes dental coverage or add a stand-alone dental plan. If you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you can get dental coverage when you change health plans.

  3. How can I see what dental plans and benefits are available? After you complete your Marketplace application and get your results, you can view health plans that include dental coverage. If you decide you want a stand-alone dental plan, you can choose one after you select your health plan.

  4. Do I have to get dental coverage for my child? No. Dental coverage for children is an essential health benefit. This means if you’re getting health coverage for someone 18 or under, dental coverage must be available for them either as part of a health plan or as a stand-alone plan. But while dental coverage for children must be available, you don’t have to buy it.

  5. Can I cancel my Marketplace dental coverage at any time and still keep my health coverage? It depends on what type of dental coverage you have. If you have a separate, stand-alone dental plan, you can cancel your dental coverage any time during the year by not making payments on the dental plan premium. As long as you continue to pay your health plan premium, you’ll stay enrolled in your health plan.

If you have a health plan that includes dental benefits, you can change to another health plan without dental benefits only during Open Enrollment, unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

Get more information on dental coverage in the Marketplace.



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If you’re a small business owner, you know how important it is to offer high-quality, affordable health and dental coverage that meets the needs of your business and your employees. The Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) Marketplace can help you do that by offering flexibility, choice, and the convenience of online application and account management.

The SHOP Marketplace is currently open to employers with 50 or fewer full-time equivalent employees (FTEs), including non-profit organizations. In 2016, the SHOP Marketplace will be available to larger businesses with 100 or fewer FTEs. You can enroll in the SHOP Marketplace at any point throughout the year, and there’s no restricted enrollment period when you can start offering your enrollees SHOP Marketplace coverage.

Here are 5 benefits of the SHOP Marketplace:

  • Everything’s online. Visit http://ift.tt/1fvEb7V to apply for the SHOP Marketplace, choose a plan or plans, complete your coverage offer, manage employee participation, and pay your premiums. Your enrollees can apply online too.

  • Flexible coverage options. You control the coverage you offer and how much you pay toward employee premiums. You choose whether to offer dependent coverage and dental insurance. You choose how long your employees’ Open Enrollment Period is, and the waiting period before new employees can enroll.

  • There’s help to apply and enroll. Licensed agents and brokers registered to work with the SHOP Marketplace can help you apply and enroll for coverage. You can also continue to use your current agent or broker as long as they complete the SHOP Marketplace registration requirements. Working with a SHOP-registered agent or broker doesn’t cost you or your employees a dime. When you apply, you can search for agents and brokers registered to sell SHOP Marketplace plans by name and ZIP code.

  • Employee choice. In all states, you can offer one health and one dental plan to your employees. In some states, you can choose a coverage category, like Bronze or Silver, and let your employees select the plan that meets their needs within the category that you choose.

  • You may be eligible for a tax credit. The SHOP Tax Credit Estimator can help determine if your business may qualify for the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit worth up to 50% of your premium costs. The tax credit is available only for plans bought through the SHOP Marketplace.

See if you qualify to offer SHOP Marketplace coverage to your employees, and learn how to enroll.



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Life change? You may be able to get health coverage for 2015

Thinking about moving, getting married, having a baby, or changing jobs? When you make big decisions in life, you may be eligible to buy or change Health Insurance Marketplace coverage outside the yearly Open Enrollment Period.

If you’ve had a qualifying major life event, you have 60 days from the life event to enroll in coverage. You can apply or change plans online or by phone. Before you apply, use this checklist (PDF) to gather everything you need before you call or log in.

See if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.



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Choosing a doctor is one of the most important decisions you'll make about your health care. Finding the right one can take a little work, but is well worth it. If you’ve already had your first visit with a primary care doctor under your new plan, ask yourself these 5 questions to make sure your doctor is the right one for you:

  1. Did you feel the doctor cared about your health and about you as a person?
  2. Did the doctor listen to you and address your needs?
  3. Did the doctor use words you could understand and talk to you in a way that made you feel comfortable?
  4. Was he or she respectful of your opinions, culture, and beliefs?
  5. Did you feel like you could ask questions at the appointment or call the doctor later with questions?

If you answered "Yes" to these questions, you may have found a doctor that's right for you. If you answered "No" to any of these questions, ask yourself if you think the doctor would make changes if you spoke up. Sometimes, that’s the best way to get what you need.

It may take more than one appointment when choosing the right doctor for you. Take the time to explore your options. If you’re not satisfied with your primary care doctor, you can look for another doctor in your network. Your insurance company may be able to help you with this. Make sure to tell them what you’re looking for, like a doctor who has certain hours, is a specific gender or speaks a certain language.

It's important to find a doctor who meets your needs. Having a good doctor you can trust can lead to a longer, healthier, and happier life.

Watch the video: "Like or Dislike" - from Coverage to Care



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Choosing the right doctor or other health care provider is one of the most important decisions you’ll make about your health care. You should look for a doctor you can trust and work with to improve your health and well-being.

Here are some tips for how to find a doctor near you:

Once you’ve found a doctor, schedule your first visit. Be sure to tell the office if you’re a new patient, the name of the doctor you want to see, and the reason for your appointment. If you already have a doctor you like and want to keep working with, call their office and ask if they accept your coverage.

Here are some ways to prepare for your first appointment:

  • Make sure you have items like your insurance card, photo ID, and a list of any medications you’re currently taking.
  • Review your family health history before your appointment, so you can share this information with your doctor.
  • Ask about any questions or concerns you have about your health – write them down so you don’t forget to ask.

Watch the video: "Finding a Provider" - from Coverage to Care

Watch the video: "My First Visit" - from Coverage to Care



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Have a healthy summer with preventive care

The official first day of summer is right around the corner. As we enter a new season, it’s important to be proactive with your health. One simple way to manage your health is to practice preventive care.

Preventive services include:

  • screenings for things like cancer, depression, blood pressure, cholesterol and tobacco use
  • immunization vaccines like the flu shot and Tetanus vaccine
  • check-ups
  • patient counseling for alcohol misuse, tobacco use and diet

These services are used to prevent illnesses, disease, and other health problems, or to detect illness at an early stage when treatment is likely to work best.

Did you know that your Marketplace health care plan must cover a variety of preventive services without charging you a copayment or coinsurance when you use a network provider? This is true even if you haven’t met your yearly deductible. Additional preventive services may be available for women and children.

Getting recommended preventive services and making healthy lifestyle choices are key steps to good health and well-being. Don’t take a summer break from your health – find out what preventive services you’re eligible for by contacting your health plan today.



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In a world where unforeseen consequences can lead to costly damages and potential lawsuits, managing your risks is an absolute must. When looking for ways to mitigate risk in an investment, such as a car, house, or expensive work of art, people often turn to major insurance companies. In theory, paying a little each month can protect you from sudden financial disaster in the future. While these companies have good intentions, the reality is often much less idyllic. Companies often try to deny claims or take forever to process payments, leaving you stuck with a mountain of debt while you try to keep your investments afloat.
Contract Work
Particularly in contract work, standard liability coverage often leaves much to be desired. When allowing a contractor to work in your home, install an air conditioner, or run new power lines, you are taking a huge leap of faith that the company will behave ethically and do their work up to code. While most reputable companies carry liability, there is simply no way to guarantee that their coverage will provide you with the compensation you need when their mistakes cost you thousands of dollars in damages. To mitigate this risk, surety insurance has become a preferred means of protecting your investment. This type of protection, often called surety bonds, offers a unique method of controlling the way funds are distributed in the event of a disaster. Rather than spreading settlement payout across a myriad of clients, surety insurance is a three-way agreement between a customer, a contractor, and their bondsman. With stricter guidelines and a clear understanding of responsibility, these bonds allow payment to be treated like a bank loan rather than a sudden cash windfall. By cutting out the major corporations, homeowners are able to hold contractors accountable and seek damages as soon as they know shoddy work has been performed rather than after catastrophe has struck.
Public Works
Surety insurance is also beneficial in the case of public works. When building a park, statue, or other municipal attraction, city and town governments rely on one major overseer to manage a large number of subcontractors. Often this primary job lead is the only point of contact for the various electricians, sculptors, and carpenters working on the job site every day. While this manager hires out the work and can make agreements for compensation on his own, he will not be the one receiving complaints should any subcontractors not receive their due. Dissatisfied workers will climb as far up the food chain as they can and head right for the biggest wallet. Liability protection held by a contractor won't save the city in this instance; only a qualified bond will do the trick. The township can activate their agreement and settle payment directly with the workers without any scandal or lawyers whatsoever.
Whether you are building an addition to your home or rebuilding the town square, make the right decision and cover yourself with surety insurance.
When considering the benefits of surety insurance, Albuquerque residents can learn more safeguarding their investments at http://www.mianm.com/surety-bonds-insurance/


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8775074
Understanding Insurance Claims
An Insurance Plan can get us off our worries. May it be an Educational Plan, Health, Life, Auto, Accident or Retirement Insurance Plan. Living in a country where everything is fast-paced, having an Insurance Policy is a necessity. The absence of these much-needed Plans could cause you a lot of troubles. Imagine, what to do when someone in the family is sick? Paying your hospital bills could be worrisome and how would you send your children to school without an Educational Insurance?
Some people have different kinds of Insurance Plans to secure their life and that of their family. However, an insurance claim also provides negative feedbacks that discourages people from thinking of the necessity of acquiring an insurance Plan. Definitely, an Insurance Plan means benefits but somehow, claiming those benefits could be tedious and time-consuming. Insurance claims need not give us so much trouble if we just understand how Insurance companies work on our Insurance claims. So to fully understand issues and save us a lot of troubles claiming our insurance, let us take a look on this.
How to File Your 4 Important Insurance Claims
Filing your Auto Insurance Claim
1. Assess if the Claim is Worth the Trouble
Before filing for an auto insurance claim, decide if you want to file a claim or not. If you think you can afford to pay for the damage, no matter who is responsible for it, then try not to make any claim. What is important, according to a Personal Insurance Expert, you need to keep your Insurance Record clean.
2. Get the Accident Document
It is very important to document every detail of the accident and get witnesses to back up your story afterwards. A Police record on the scene is a relevant document you must have to support your claim.
3. File Claim Immediately
You don't need to lose time in filing your claim. Question as to who is responsible will be taken care of by your Insurance Company.
4. Expect a Call Anytime
Expect a call from the other driver's Insurance Company to interview you on your version of the incident. Make sure you document the conversation and don't forget to ask the agent's name.
5. Get Your Car Fixed
After your claim is approved, then you can have your car's body fixed in case of a damage. The Insurance Company will assess the damage or ask you to send your car to any car shop of their choice to get it fixed.
How to File Your Home Insurance Claim
In case of a disaster which left you and your family homeless, file your Home Insurance Claim. As you file your claim, be sure to have your Insurance Policy with you. In case you were not able to have your copy available after the disaster, at least know and remember your Insurance Company's name and contact numbers. It is not always relevant to remember only your agent's name for sometimes, he could represent various companies.
Prepare a Quick Household Inventory
It's always better to take a video of your whole household belongings every time you acquire a Home Insurance Plan. Keep a copy of this record and keep it in a safe-keeping vault outside of your house. It's always advisable to keep a bank deposit box for important documents like Insurance Policies, Property Title, etc.
Notify Your Insurance Company ASAP
It is important to notify your Insurance Company as soon as possible for the reason that you may have to avail of the Loss-of-Use Benefit in your policy if you have this feature. This could cover living expenses outside of your home while it is being repaired such as hotel bills, meals and other cost of living expenses. This will entitle you to receive immediate cash needed for your bills.
Start Filing Your Claim
You can't have your claim until you have everything properly documented. So, it would be hard for you to have a documented list of your household belongings if you don't have access to your damaged home. Only when you can gain access to your home once again could you properly document it. While you are waiting for the approval of the claim, you may make minor repairs but be sure to record every disbursement you make. Don't make any major repairs until your claim is approved.
How to Hire a Contractor for Insurance Claim
Find a reputable contractor to take care of your building or repair needs. A lot of contractors would always grab a chance like this to take advantage of your anxiety. They can always stretch your budget beyond the level of reasoning.
How to File a Life Insurance Claim
Filing for an Insurance Claim after the death of a loved is not really easy. However, it is at this point in life when you have to be practical. You need money more than anything to pay off the funeral cost, bills and even the family needs. It is hard to be left alone and face all these problems but you have to be thankful if the deceased love one had prepared you for times like this. As a survivor, we sometimes worry about things like these but a Life Insurance Plan is designed to give us less worries and ensures the deceased family that we won't have to deal with the financial problem as we grieved over the loss of a loved one.
Find the Life Insurance Policy
The Policy is an important document granted to the Policy Holder. This is badly needed when filing for an Insurance claim. Be sure to look for it if the deceased party had failed to inform you where he had kept it. You may keep in mind that this is a very important document, so the keeper might have kept it in a place not easily seen or recognizable. You may look in a plastic container or any sealed container large enough to contain it. It could also be kept in a small drawer of a cabinet in your head board or lamp stand cabinet.
If you can't find the Insurance Policy but you are sure that the decease is an Insurance Policy Holder, you may write to the American Council of Life Insurance (ACLI).For a small amount, the ACLI will conduct a search to find the Policy. The address is 101 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20004-2500. Don't forget to include a self-addressed, business-sized envelope.
Contact the Company's Number Listed in the Policy
Try to contact immediately the contact number or numbers listed in the document. If you personally know the authorized representative or agent, you may as well contact him directly and tell him that you want to file a claim. The company's agent will always be ready to assist you in your filing. He will be providing you with forms needed for the application. Wait for any instruction that the Insurance Company will provide you.
Fill-up the Necessary Forms and Submit Requirements
After receiving the necessary form needed for application in filing for the Insurance claim, fill it up with all the needed information. Provide also the other requirements needed upon submission. The Death Certificate is the very basic of all requirements you may need to provide together with your Application Form. Decide How you want to Receive the Proceeds from the Life Policy. You may choose to receive the proceeds in lump sum, or opt to receive it in a form of monthly pension or simply leave the money in deposit for it to earn interest and dividends.
Wait for the Release of the Funds
Expect that your fund's approval for the claim will take more than a month to process as the Insurance Company still have to validate information relative to your application.
How to File Health for Medical Claims
If you have to pay for your medical bills, then you have to file for your Health Insurance Claim. Here are some helpful tips in making your claim:
Keep an Itemized Report
Be sure to obtain all receipts and necessary statement of accounts issued by the doctor or pharmacist. Summarize it, so it could be easily understood by the Insurance Evaluator. Attach it to your Application Form.
Fill-Up Your Claim Application Form
Contact your Health Insurance Company as soon as possible. You may get your Application Form directly from them after declaring your desire to file for a Health Insurance Claim. The Application Form is easy to fill-up but someone from the Insurance Company is sure to assist you if there are some items in the Application Form that you don't understand.
Scan or Duplicate a Copy
After filling up your form and submitting to the Health Insurance Company, be sure to scan it or have your duplicate copy to keep. This will keep you from inconvenience in case of loss or error in filing. You can easily file it again when needed. Review Before Submission. File your claim as soon as possible. Ask for assistance or inquire for any additional instruction or requirements. Ask how long it will take you to wait for the result and be sure to make a note of it in your calendar. If they failed to contact you on the given date, be sure to contact your Health Insurance Agent immediately.
Filing for an insurance claim can be tedious but in today's world where everything is fast-paced, having an Insurance Policy is becoming a necessity. Here is your guide on how to file your Insurance claim with lesser time, effort and troubles.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8800745
With continuous changes to the software industry, Claims Management Systems (CMS) have evolved with technology. These systems are equipped with newer capabilities to provide enhanced services to customers. In such situations, evaluating and selecting the right CMS for your organization could be a difficult task. In order to assist with this process, we furnish a few simple steps through which you can evaluate and choose the right CMS for your organization.
Check the efficiency and responsiveness of the system:
Efficiency
• Claim management systems are crucial to making the customers satisfied and to improve the overall performance of the company. A CMS should be able to manage the entire claim process - from the beginning to the final settlement. The software should help in organizing every file activity and maintain reports.
Responsiveness
• In addition to performance, a CMS needs to allow the user to run reports instantly. The ability to quickly access information will expedite the claims, allowing employees to return to work, and employers to save valuable resources.
• A transaction - accessing and saving a claim, creating letters, etc. should not take more than 10 seconds, and on an average it should be done only in a couple of seconds.
• While evaluating the performance and response time of the CMS, ensure to check them in a real time environment with and user data. This will give a complete picture of the performance and the responsiveness of the system.
Technology used in the system
Today, many organizations prefer browser based systems that help them simplify deployment, support, and allow for remote access.
• While evaluating the technology, check the type of database being used. It is important to choose the right database with a simple and efficient data model. This will help create reports and data mine independently.
• A critical issue that goes unchecked by many organizations is with respect to the reporting database. The reporting database should be kept separate from the transactional database as it impacts the system performance.
Security, confidentiality and hosting model of the system
Security and confidentiality of the data
It is the responsibility of the organization to keep the claimants information secure. In order to keep the data safe, it has to be encrypted with multilevel access passwords. All users should be given unique ID's and passwords with no plain text.
• To reset the password and protect system security, do not allow viewing of the old password.
• Data to the user and from the user should be encrypted using a SSL encryption. Along with this, user access permissions, levels of authority, hierarchy, etc. - are necessary to ensure security and confidentiality.
Hosting
• If your organization possesses adequate bandwidth and infrastructure for supporting new applications you may want to consider hosting the system.
• If not, hiring a reputable web host is you best alternative. Be sure to confirm the system is always accessible and is supported without any interruptions in the services. Additionally, in choosing a web host make sure that there is equipment redundancy and document backup to ensure data is replicated without any loss.
Functionality and features of the system
Functionality
• For every CMS, there should be some basic functional modules such as claim/claimant maintenance, notepads, diaries, reporting, payment and reserves, etc.
• Check the functionality that will help the examiners to focus on closing claims quickly. You can ask various questions regarding the functionality of the CMS, depending on your business requirements and workflow.
Features
• Check the features of the system and all the data categories that your organization needs.
• The system should enable users to build data fields as the organization grows and risks become more complex.
• Check for the software integration. This gives the new capabilities in settling the claims quickly and efficiently.
Vendor assessment
Once the system meets all the required guidelines, it is necessary to assess the vendor. In order to assess a vendor, several factors should be considered.
Clients' needs
• An efficient vendor should constantly work on improving the system, based on client needs. They should be to discuss new functionality and any challenges with implementing system enhancements. Ask any potential vendor how often they meet their clients for discussing such issues.
Other factors (past experience, etc.)
• Consider vendors past experience. How efficient they are in research and development of new technologies? How effective are they are in knowledge transfer?
• References would assist in choosing the right web host. This will provide appropriate insight to what a relationship with the vendor will be like in the future.
Pricing structure
• Pricing structure should be flexible for each client. Depending on size and need, each contract can vary greatly. Terms of payment should also be flexible in order to allow companies of all sizes to find a system that works for them financially. A CMS with many users should cost less per user than that of one with fewer users.
Following these points can help evaluate the claims management system (CMS) quality parameters, and check how well it suits your business.
JDi Data Corporation is providing insurance claims software for 30 years. The product suite includes workers compensation software and claims management systems for property and casualty, medical malpractice, risk managers, third party administrators, etc. JDi Data has built a reputation in quality claims management software with emphasis on complex litigation.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8858915
There are many things that you need to set in place when you first start out working as a courier driver. However, one of the most important things on your list should be to ensure you have adequate insurance.
Finding suitable insurance is essential. Not only is insurance a legal requirement, but a policy that covers all your needs will also serve to provide you with peace of mind while you work. Here is what you need to know.
Courier Insurance is not Standard
Insurance is a legal requirement for every driver - in fact, even if you are not using your van a lot, it must still be insured. However, if you use your vehicle to carry out delivery work, you should be aware that you'll need more than just standard vehicle insurance. As a courier driver, you will be considered a higher risk than other road users, because you will stop frequently, you have deadlines to meet, and you may also transport valuable goods that need to be covered under a policy. It therefore makes sense to spend adequate time researching the most suitable policy, even if that means spending a little more on it.
Different Types
There are different levels of policies that you can choose from. Everybody's circumstances are unique, so it is important to find the most suitable policy for your personal situation when working as a courier driver. Various factors could influence your insurance, from the type of vehicle you drive to how far you travel and how many drop-offs you make.
One of the most important things to look for is goods in transit cover. This provides coverage for all the cargo you transport, some of which may be very valuable. If you have an accident or the goods are stolen, you are liable for the damage or loss, and this could cost you a lot of money. So to have complete peace of mind you'll need to invest in decent goods in transit cover. (You should also find out what is not covered under a particular policy, as it may not include high-value goods like jewellery.)
Breakdown cover is another thing you should definitely consider including. This will provide you with protection should you experience problems on the road, as it can be very difficult if something goes wrong when you are working to a deadline.
Other things that may be covered in a policy include vandalism, overseas travel, public liability, employers' liability, personal belongings and replacement van cover. You may also want to get a fleet policy if you have numerous vehicles. It's important never to assume that any aspect is covered; always check the details carefully and understand exactly what you're covered for as well as how much excess you will have to pay when you make a claim.
Look Around for a Suitable Policy
When you start your research for insurance, always search around and get quotes from various providers, as they'll all provide slightly different policies at different prices. This is an important decision for any courier driver, so do spend some time over the process. And remember, don't simply buy the cheapest you can find - you need to make sure it really does provide the cover you need.
Norman Dulwich is a correspondent for Courier Exchange, the world's largest neutral trading hub for same day courier driver jobs in the express freight exchange industry. Over 3,000 transport exchange businesses are networked together through their website, trading courier jobs and capacity in a safe 'wholesale' environment.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8887121
The insurance company you choose to protect you from loss in the event of an accident or situation needs to be a trustworthy one. Know what to look for as you analyze and examine different companies and policies to ensure that you choose the right coverage.
Positive Ratings
Rely on the assessments of the rating companies, whose purpose is to analyze the quality and financial wellbeing of insurance companies. Check the rating of any insurance company you are considering. As you check ratings, compare them to learn which business has the highest rating. Higher ratings have a direct correlation with the solidity of the business and the services provided. Higher ratings also indicate entities with more solid financial standings for paying out claims.
Business Longevity
Examine the length of time a business has been operating to get an indication of the quality and reliability of its services. A newly formed entity may not be able to offer customers the same reliability and performance as businesses that have been around for many years. A recent purchase and transfer between insurers could indicate that the new owner is undertaking positive growth.
Customer Service
The services provided to customers by an insurance company will be an important indicator of quality. Optimally, customers should be able to reach representatives in a variety of ways, such as by phone, online chat, and email. The response times to customer queries should be relatively short to ensure that all questions and concerns receive a speedy resolution. Customers should also be able to reach a representative around the clock and on weekends and holidays for emergencies.
Coverage Policies
The policies provided should meet your needs, with cost effective premiums, affordable deductibles, and terms that meet your coverage needs. Compare policy terms between different corporations to ensure that you choose the policy that fits your budget and needs. Explore the claim-paying process to find out how the business investigates claims and the typical time period for payment on a claim. Find out the rate of claim refusal, also, so you know the average pay out statistics for the insurance company.
Reviews and Complaints
Learn about reviews and complaints recorded by other customers to find out potentially positive and negative information about the insurer. Find positive and negative reviews on websites that allow consumers to record their experiences for other consumers to read. These reviews may provide surprising information about an entity that could lead you to decide not to choose them as your insurer. You might also learn positive information about the way a business takes care of its customers. Optimally, the corporation you choose should have very few or even no complaints lodged against it from other customers.
Once you gather extensive information about a company, you will have the data you need to choose a quality business for your coverage needs. This will enable you to put your trust and confidence in this corporation, knowing that it will assist you financially if you need it.
When looking for a well-respected insurance company, PA residents visit The Nice Agency. Learn more about our services at http://niceinsuranceagency.com/.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8926859
Do I Need Public Liability Insurance?
If you are Self Employed, or own a Business you must have Public Liability Insurance in case of an accident. A member of the public, a contractor, Client or member of staff (if you are an employer) can claim compensation against you. As a tradesman or any worker on site - you have a Duty Of Care to those around you to work safely and with professional integrity - but accidents do happen, there will always be unexpected professional oversights. You must protect your livelihood in case someone claims against you - otherwise you could lose everything.
'Where there's blame, there's a claim' is our culture these day's, and accidents will always happen in the work place and on site despite best intentions and anyone who gets injured, or property becomes damaged as a result of you or your business could be eligible to claim against you.
The most common types of claims fall into a small number of categories:
• Slips, trips and falls-these make up the majority of claims, and are the hardest to prevent.
• Stress and anxiety, due to hold ups, for example Electrical malfunction, or delayed finishes to building projects affecting the next tier of tradesmen beginning - example: the plasterers run over the finish date which in turn hold up the decorators.
• Falling objects, i.e. striking against or struck by
Do I Need Professional Indemnity Insurance?
If your business offers advice you may also need 'Professional Indemnity Insurance', which covers you in the event you give incorrect advice and a business or client were to suffer financial losses as a result. This is also valuable for trades such as Financial Planning, Business Consultants and IT Consultants. This is not instead of Public Liability Insurance, some trades will need both.
Do I Need Employers Liability Insurance?
If you employ any staff, you must have Employers Liability Insurance; this is direct protection for your staff against any accidents or illness which is caused by your or your business.
Imagine if your administrator were to suffer symptoms of RSI while in your employment, or a gardeners apprentice was to suffer injuries as a result of having a go with a hedge trimmer while you were busy elsewhere? These are very real risks, and you are required by law to have this in place, for protection of those in your employment.
Example: Plumbers business - a customer moves some pipes that were left propped up against the wall in a bid to prevent them falling, in doing so they accidentally cause the apprentice to trip and fall, breaking his wrist. This requires 6 weeks off work on statutory sick pay while the injury recovers. The apprentice can now launch a claim against his employer for compensation, and loss of earnings, as the injury was caused by the client in the workplace.
Call Tradesman Shield on Freephone 0800 612 2007 for a free quote or visit:
http://www.tradesmanshield.co.uk/ for an online quote now!
Free advice about Public Liability Insurance, Professional Liability Insurance and Employers Liability Insurance from FCA approved advisors. Premiums starting at £40 per year!


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8962058

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