Special to Iredell Free News
RALEIGH — The deadline to sign up for health insurance through the Federal Health Insurance Marketplace is rapidly approaching.
The deadlines to enroll and to take advantage of lower premiums are fast approaching. Those who need coverage in place by January 1, 2022, must sign up by Wednesday, December 15. Open enrollment ends January 15, 2022, with coverage taking effect at later dates.
Gov. Roy Cooper and N.C. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mandy K. Cohen recently highlighted changes in federal law that make obtaining insurance through the federal Health Insurance Marketplace more affordable and available to more than 100,000 additional people in the state.
“North Carolinians have a tremendous opportunity to sign up for health insurance for themselves and their family at a more affordable price and sometimes for free,” Cooper said. “I urge people who don’t have coverage to investigate their options and learn about these plans.”
The American Rescue Plan, which became law in March, provides additional subsidies and tax credits for those purchasing their own insurance through the Marketplace. In North Carolina, as many as 116,500 uninsured people are newly eligible for tax credits, while 112,600 more may get the benchmark Marketplace coverage at no cost.
“Health insurance coverage and high-quality health care are critical to a person’s overall health and well-being,” Cohen said. “We urge North Carolinas to act before the December 15 deadline to take advantage of health insurance at an even more affordable price for them and their families.”
At HealthCare.gov, North Carolinians can compare plan benefits, costs and other features. Plans include essential health benefits and preventive care, in addition to mental health care, emergency room care and maternity coverage, not limited by caps or pre-existing conditions.
The NC Navigator Consortium provides federally qualified health insurance navigators to guide consumers through complexities of the sign-up process and maximize their coverage. Appointments may be scheduled online at ncnavigator.net or by calling 1-855-733-3711.