Let's talk about getting you health insurance… Not too many people are mentioning this, and I'm afraid it's getting overshadowed by the pandemic and the election. Because we're in a pandemic, it would be a great idea to review your coverage or get healthcare coverage before the deadline.
Steps to Get Health Insurance
If you don't have health insurance or you need to check out better options, then all you have to do is:
Step 1: Create Your Account
Step 1: Go to HealthCare.gov and click the green button that says, “Take the First Step to Apply”. If you already have a plan, then you can click the Log In To Renew/Change Plans button.
When you click on “Take the First Step to Apply”, you'll see a Create an account headline with a dropdown selector to select your state.
Step 2: Pick Your State
Once you select your state, a form will drop down so you can fill out the form with your info and security questions. Make sure you write down the answers to your security questions. Last year, I was locked out because I must have set mine to “my favorite radio station” and none of my answers worked to unlock.
Then, click the “I UNDERSTAND” and create your account. That'll be your login details to always come back to the site. You can always log back in here.
Step 3: Fill Out Your Application
Once you login, you'll see a headline that says “need coverage for 2021”? You'll need:
- Complete a 2021 application.
- View your eligibility results.
- Enroll by December 15th so your coverage can start on January 1st.
Select your start and click the green button START MY APPLICATION.
The site will ask you a series of easy questions like are you single/married/have kids. Then , basic income stuff. You'll go through that to “apply” for coverage. It looks like this:
Once you answer the questions, you'll view the results, including any credits that will be applied to your monthly premium. Then, you will be able to view the insurance plans and the monthly price.
Select an Insurance Policy
You'll be able to view the amount of the policy MINUS any healthcare credits to see how much each policy is. I went ahead and paid a little extra to get $0 deductibles, $0 prescriptions, $0 co-pays…
You'll reach a page to compare your plans. I was able to add my hospital as a filter to narrow down the plans. Then, I don't want a deductible or high out of pocket and that narrowed my insurance plans down to three.
I was able to compare the three and select the best one. Once you select the best one, it'll get sent to the company. Logout & log back in after about 30 minutes. You will see a PAY YOUR PLAN link. That allows you to submit payment and start your policy off on Jan. 1st, 2021.
If you need any help, the site will give you phone numbers to call. They are very helpful and ready to get you covered. Please share this with someone you think needs this before the deadline.
