Here's What You Need To Know About Your Health Insurance During Open Enrollment

Nowâ's the time to get the health insurance you need in Oakland, CA; itâ's open enrollment!

Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), individuals can only buy health insurance during certain times of year. These times are known Open Enrollment Periods. The goal of open enrollment is to capture everybody who needs coverage (why, by the way, is now legally everyone unless youâ're covered through work) at one time. That way weâ're all consistently paying our premiums and funding our healthcare system. This helps make coverage more affordable for everyone. Weâ're currently in an open enrollment period, so if you need coverage now is the time to buy it! If you donâ't get a policy during open enrollment and youâ're not covered through work, youâ'll face penalties when you file your 2016 taxes. Open enrollment has deadlines coming up that you should know about. If you want your policy to take effect by February 1^st, you need to purchase it by January 15^th. If you miss the 15^th cutoff, donâ't wait to get your policy! Open enrollment ends on January 31^st. If you donâ't enroll in a plan before the end of the month, youâ'll need to qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. These periods give you 60 days to get a policy after you undergo a major life change like moving to a new state, having a baby, getting married, or losing your workplace policy. Ultimately, the best way to protect your health and avoid tax penalties in the coming year is to get coverage right away! Contact Cook, Disharoon & Greathouse Insurance in Oakland, California to get the health insurance you need during the current open enrollment period. As Affordable Care Act experts, we can help you get the best policy at the best price, all while helping you comply with the new regulations.