Reminder: It’s time to Sign Up for Health Insurance and Enroll-Virginia Can Help

By Susan Nolan

Open enrollment continues through December 15 for the Affordable Care Act’s Marketplaces (also known as Obamacare). Affordable plans are available, and many people will qualify for subsidies to lower the cost of the coverage. It is important that those who have a current Marketplace plan update their account for 2019 and view new costs before the December 15th deadline.

With the expansion of Medicaid in Virginia, an estimated 300,000+ low-income adults may qualify for Medicaid. Note that the Marketplace will refer those consumers who appear Medicaid eligible directly to Cover Virginia for evaluation. Medicaid provides high quality free or low-cost coverage for adults meeting certain requirements. Adults aged 19-64 (and not receiving Medicare) with incomes up to $16,754 for an individual or $28,677 in a family of three may be eligible. Similar to private insurance, those who qualify for Medicaid will choose a health plan after they enroll. The Enrollment in Medicaid also began on November 1st and coverage will be effective January 1, 2019. Unlike in the Marketplace, people can apply for Medicaid throughout the year.

The Navigator program “Enroll-Virginia” can help consumers in Alexandria and other areas of Northern Virginia get in-person help applying for both Marketplace and Medicaid coverage. Navigators and an experienced team of Certified Application Counselors are available to provide in-person assistance during the week and every Saturday during open enrollment. To schedule an appointment, call (703) 647-4748 or visit this website. To apply directly, visit this website or call (800) 318-2596 (24/7). Consumers can also apply for Medicaid here or by calling (855) 242-8282.