Enrollment period for Arkansas Health Insurance Marketplace now open

Enrollment period for Arkansas Health Insurance Marketplace now open

There is an important deadline approaching for Arkansans struggling to afford health insurance.

The open enrollment period for the Arkansas Health Insurance Marketplace began this week. Individuals and families must be enrolled in a plan before January 1, 2017, in order to avoid a tax penalty next year. For coverage to take effect January 1, you will need to enroll by December 15 at www.myarinsurance.com.

Open enrollment happens just once a year.

Open enrollment is essentially for Arkansans who do not have access to employer-sponsored insurance.

Each option includes standard health care benefits including inpatient care, outpatient services, and prescription drugs. The plans also emphasize the importance of preventative care and screenings, most of which do not require a co-payment. Most importantly, there are no lifetime limits and no restrictions for preexisting conditions. Financial help is available to help pay for the cost of insurance. Many Arkansans qualify for help with premiums through the Marketplace. Keep in mind that those without insurance next year could face penalties from $695 to $2,083 individually.

My Arkansas Insurance also provides information about health insurance options for small businesses. The Arkansas Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) is a health insurance marketplace offering quality plans for Arkansas small businesses with 2 to 50 full-time equivalent employees.

Cost savings may be available to small businesses for the coverage purchased through Arkansas SHOP with the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit.

Arkansans who currently have coverage through the marketplace should also visit the site to explore new plans and prices.

Agents, brokers and other licensed experts can help you choose the best plan. They can meet with you for free to go over plans or help you enroll. You can find those experts close to home by visiting the website.

From State Representative Deborah Ferguson