The clock is ticking for those looking to enroll in health insurance under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) this year. You have until this Friday, December 15th, to either purchase or modify your individual or family health insurance plan for 2018.
This year’s open enrollment period is significantly shorter, lasting only 45 days, which started on November 1st. Unlike previous years where participants had nearly three full months to review their options, this limited timeframe means eligible individuals must act quickly. For those who may have experienced qualifying life events—such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child—there are opportunities for a Special Enrollment Period. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or need to sign up, visit Healthcare.gov for guidance. You can also take a look at the plan options and pricing prior to enrollment.
It’s crucial to understand that any plans acquired during this open enrollment phase won’t take effect until January 1, 2018. For help navigating the enrollment process, you can watch a helpful instructional video.
Due to shifts in policy, the current administration has reduced promotional spending for open enrollment by a staggering 90%, slashing the budget from $100 million to just $10 million. Additionally, funding for “navigators”—individuals who assist with the enrollment process—is down by 41%. This outreach is especially vital in the final days of enrollment, as younger people are often more likely to sign up then.
If you do not have health insurance through your employer, government programs like Medicare or Medicaid, or if you are over 26 and no longer covered under your parents’ plan, signing up under the ACA is essential. Furthermore, many individuals can qualify for tax credits that make health insurance more affordable.
Currently, more than 20 million people benefit from the ACA, which includes expanded Medicaid and subsidized private insurance. The ACA’s primary goal is to ensure that everyone has access to quality coverage at a price that is manageable.
If you haven’t enrolled yet, now is the time to take action. For those interested in family planning and the use of home insemination, check out this post on using an artificial insemination kit. For further resources on pregnancy and home insemination, the CDC offers excellent information that can guide you in your journey. Additionally, for expert insights on home insemination, visit this authority on the topic.
In summary, make sure to mark your calendars for December 15th, as this is the last day to enroll in ACA health insurance for 2018. The enrollment period is shorter this year, and the stakes are high for those without coverage. Don’t miss out on your chance to secure health insurance!