CMS is extending access to the Healthcare.gov Special Enrollment Period (SEP) until August 15 – giving consumers additional time to take advantage of new savings through the American Rescue Plan. This action provides new and current enrollees an additional three months to enroll or re-evaluate their coverage needs with increased tax credits available to reduce premiums.
The savings from the American Rescue Plan will decrease premiums for many, on average, by $50 per person per month and $85 per policy per month. On average, one out of four enrollees on HeathCare.gov will be able to upgrade to a higher plan category that offers better out of pocket costs at the same or lower premium compared to what they’re paying today.
The SEP is being offered to consumers applying for new coverage or updating an existing application through HealthCare.gov, the Marketplace call center, or through direct enrollment channels. Coverage is prospective, with coverage beginning the first day of the month following the date of plan selection.
Consumers seeking to take advantage of the new SEP can find out if they are eligible by visiting HealthCare.gov.
For more information on the extended Special Enrollment Period, see this fact sheet from CMS.
All providers should remind their staff to verify patients’ insurance information at every visit. Many people are changing their insurance due to the impact of the pandemic.