Open Enrollment for Affordable Care Ends March 31

Why sign up for Affordable Care now? 

  

Reason 1:  Affordable Care Plans will not be offered after the deadline.

If you miss the open enrollment deadline of 3/31/14, you will have to wait until the next open enrollment period. After the deadline, you can purchase a new health plan only if you have a qualifying life event like a job loss, birth, marriage or divorce.

Reason 2:  The new Affordable Care Plans provide valuable, preventive care.

Staying healthy will be easier than ever before because preventive care will now be covered. Preventive services include diabetes and cholesterol screenings, mammograms and immunizations. You’ll also be covered for flu shots, smoking cessation programs, diet counseling and much more.

Under the Affordable Care Act, children under age 19 can get their teeth cleaned twice a year, as well as receive X-rays, fillings and medically necessary orthodontia. In addition, children under age 19 will be entitled to an eye exam and one pair of glasses or set of contact lenses a year.

Reason 3: You no longer have to guess whether you’re covered for many important services

You can rest easier knowing you are protected against financial setbacks from unexpected health care emergencies. The Affordable Care Act requires all health insurance plans to include the following ten essential health benefits:

●      Emergency services

●      Hospitalization

●      Laboratory tests

●      Maternity and newborn care

●      Mental health and substance-abuse treatment

●      Outpatient care

●      Pediatric services including dental and vision care

●      Prescription drugs

●      Preventive services and management of chronic diseases

●      Rehabilitation services

Reason 4:  You risk having to pay a penalty if you miss the deadline.

For the 2014 tax year, the penalty will be $95 per person or 1 percent of a household’s taxable income, whichever is greater, with the amount decreased by one-half for dependents under the age of 18. Those who choose to pay the penalty will receive nothing for it and will still be responsible for the full bill for any of their routine or emergency medical expenses.

Open Enrollment for the Affordable Care Act ends March 31^st so time is running out for you to sign up. Call me at 440-255-5700 to discuss your options. Let me help you choose the coverage that makes the most sense for you, your family and your budget.