The clock is ticking. The Republican legislative effort to kill the Affordable Care Act may be dead, but even a united Democratic majority in the House may not be able to stop President Donald Trump from chipping away at the provisions of The Affordable Health Care signature law.
The 2019 Open Enrollment Period runs from Thursday, November 1, 2018, to Saturday, December 15, 2018. The enrollment period has been shortened from 90 days to 45 days, and the advertising budget to promote open enrollment has been slashed in an effort to further sabotage the program. Despite the fact, roughly 400,000 Coloradans will buy health insurance on their own, and an expected 150,000 through the federal marketplace; averaging a seven percent increase from 2018.
So how does this affect you? Since the advertising budget has been dramatically reduced, you may not have heard about the increase in tax credits for those that qualify, or you may miss the window to apply for the potential money savings on your 2019 premiums. On average for 2019, most premiums have decreased if your income has not changed and you qualify for assistance.
You may have seen or heard the term “silver loading” or “cost-sharing reduction” in the news recently. What does that mean and how can it help you? Cost Sharing Reduction (CSR), also known as silver loading, is a discount that lowers the amount you have to pay for a deductible, co-payments, and coinsurance. If you qualify, you must enroll in the Silver category to get the extra savings.
How do you know if you’re eligible? The answer lies within the Connect For Health website, but navigating that site is not the most straightforward endeavor. Another option is to call your local broker to walk you through the labyrinth. A broker is also licensed to help submit your application, advise you on the health care plans, and will do their best to get you the best savings on your premiums.
Don’t forget, December 15, 2018 is the deadline, so take advantage of the savings while you still can.
If you have any questions and would like to talk with a licensed Broker, call (970) 390-8879 or email emma@dunnfinancial.org.
Emma Dunn
Dunn Finance & Insurance
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