December 19, 2013

Cancelled plan? You’ve got coverage options

For millions of Americans quality, affordable coverage is just around the corner. And making sure people know about the new options available to them, and providing a smooth transition to this new day for coverage is our top priority

Providing a smooth transition

We’ve taken a number of steps to help you:

1. You now have more time to enroll and pay your premium
2. We’ve improved the window shopping experience on HealthCare.gov
3. PCIP enrollees can continue their coverage through January 2014.

We’re also working with insurance companies to ensure that consumers with cancelled plans don’t have a gap in coverage starting January 1. We’re providing additional resources for you if your individual insurance policy has been cancelled.

Resources for consumers with cancelled plans

If you or someone you know have received a cancellation letter, here’s what you should know:

• You can call 1-866-837-0677, a new hotline dedicated to consumers with cancelled policies. A representative will help you find coverage that begins in 2014. They can explain the options available for replacing or renewing a cancelled plan. You can call between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. EST Monday through Friday and between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturday, and Sunday.
• If the plans available in the Marketplace are unaffordable, you may be eligible for a “hardship” exemption, which will allow you to buy catastrophic coverage.
• To buy this coverage, complete a hardship exemption form, and indicate that your policy has been cancelled and that you believe the Marketplace options in your area are unaffordable.
• You will then need to provide this form along with a copy of your cancellation notice to an insurance company offering catastrophic coverage in your area and apply directly with them. The hotline can help with questions about this option.

We are working around the clock to make sure that anyone who wants coverage starting on January 1 can get it. And don’t forget that you have until March 31 to sign up for coverage effective in 2014.

Coverage is a call, click, or conversation away. We’re inviting Americans who do not have employer-based insurance to learn about their new options in the Health Insurance Marketplace at HealthCare.gov.

Remember to pay your premium to your insurance company by December 31st or any later date set by your insurer in order to have coverage that is effective January 1, 2014.