FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 23, 2021

Commissioner Donelon Alerts Consumers of Special Enrollment Period for the ACA Marketplace

Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon is alerting all Louisiana consumers who are in need of health insurance that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has initiated a Special Enrollment Period for the Affordable Care Act Marketplace. The Special Enrollment Period began on Monday, February 15, and will run through May 15 of this year. This will allow individuals and families in states like Louisiana who participate in the HealthCare.gov platform to enroll in health insurance coverage through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace for 2021.

“After a tumultuous 2020, more time to secure coverage is important for people who would like to select Marketplace health insurance coverage,” said Commissioner Donelon. “That’s true especially for the people of Louisiana, many of whom are still dealing with damage from the devastating 2020 storm season. I encourage anyone who has questions about their options or eligibility to visit HealthCare.gov.”

The Special Enrollment Period applies to consumers applying for new coverage or updating an existing application. Coverage will begin the first day of the month following the date of plan selection.  Health coverage is available at reduced or no cost for people with incomes below certain levels. In all states, your household income must be between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level to qualify for a premium tax credit that can lower your insurance costs. A calculator is available at www.healthcare.gov/lower-costs.

Starting February 15, consumers seeking to take advantage of the new Special Enrollment Period can find out if they are eligible by visiting HealthCare.gov. Consumers can find local help at Localhelp.healthcare.gov or by calling the Marketplace Call Center at 1-800-318-2596. TTY users should call 1-855-889-4325. Assistance is available in 150 languages. The call is free. 

About the Louisiana Department of Insurance: The Louisiana Department of Insurance works to improve competition in the state’s insurance market while assisting individuals and businesses with the information and resources they need to be informed consumers of insurance. As a regulator, the LDI enforces the laws that provide a fair and stable marketplace and makes certain that insurers comply with the laws in place to protect policyholders. You can contact the LDI by calling 1-800-259-5300 or visiting www.ldi.la.gov.