Thanks to tax credits and an extended enrollment period in the American Rescue Plan, Alabamians are saving an average of 42 percent on their health care coverage through the Affordable Care Act.
The special enrollment period ends Aug. 15, however, so Alabamians looking for coverage are running out of time to apply.
“Health coverage is more affordable than ever for new and returning Americans at HealthCare.gov,” said U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra in a statement. “We encourage everyone to take advantage of this opportunity to get the peace of mind that health insurance offers. If you are in need of coverage or you have a friend or family member who is, please sign up today and encourage others to do the same.”
Prior to the American Rescue plan Alabamians were paying an average premium of $120 for health care through the Affordable Care Act, commonly called Obamacare. After passage of the federal COVID-19 aid package the average cost of those premiums fell to $70, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
“Americans who need health coverage should act now. This is your opportunity to find quality, affordable health coverage that will protect you and the health of your family into the future. Please go to HealthCare.gov to enroll in a comprehensive plan that is affordable,” said CMS administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure in a statement. “Visit HealthCare.gov to sign up today or call us 24/7 at 1-800-318-2596 if you need more help.”
Alabama is among the states that have not expanded Medicaid, leaving approximately 223,000 in the coverage gap and who cannot afford health insurance, according to Alabama Arise.
Last year, 160,249 Alabamans signed up for health care through the Affordable Care Act, according to CMS.
There are several ways to apply for health coverage through the Affordable Care Act:
- Use HealthCare.gov to apply online.
- Call the Marketplace Call Center at 1-800-318-2596, which provides assistance in over 200 languages. TTY users should call 1-855-889-4325.
Find local help through an agent/broker or assistant in your area at Healthcare.gov/find-assistance/.
