Deadlines to sign up for health insurance under the new Affordable Care Act are starting to pass us by. A lot of different deadline dates have been issued regarding new insurance plans through Covered California. Including the first date, which has already passed.
The first deadline was originally set for December 15, then December 23 and finally was extended to December 24. This deadline was for those wanting coverage to start January 1, 2014. This is the earliest time when the new health coverage can begin. If you did enroll before this deadline your insurance will begin at the first of the New Year.
Depending upon the plan you enrolled in, coverage will begin January 1, but your first payment may not due until January 10. Check with a certified Covered California agent to determine when your first payment will be due.
If you missed the December 24, 2013 deadline, it is not too late. If you enroll before the 15th of each month your insurance coverage will begin on the first of the month following your enrollment. For example, if you enroll on January 14, your coverage will begin February 1. However, if you wait until the 16th to enroll your coverage will not begin until March 1.
The last day for open enrollment is March 31, 2014. If you enroll after this time, you will be charged a tax penalty of one percent of your income or $95 per adult and $47.50 per child in the household. This penalty is set to increase substantially after 2014.
For more information about your health care insurance options in the La Habra, California area contact Martplan Insurance.