Getting a Health Insurance Marketplace® plan: 4 steps
If you’re new to the Health Insurance Marketplace®, follow these 4 steps to apply and enroll on HealthCare.gov.
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2021 Open Enrollment is here. Enroll by December 15. Health coverage starts January 1.
If you don’t enroll in a Marketplace plan by Tuesday, December 15, you can’t get 2021 health insurance unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.
End highlighted textBefore you get started: See key resources
- See what Marketplace plans cover, including treatment for pre-existing medical conditions and other essential health benefits.
- Preview health plans and prices to get an estimate.
1
Create a Marketplace account
- Enter some basic information, like your name, address, and email address to start.
- If your state runs its own Marketplace, we’ll take you there.
- Get help creating your account.
2
Get ready to apply
- See how to get ready.
- Use this checklist to gather everything you may need (PDF, 160 MB).
- Learn how to estimate your income for your application.
- Need help with your application? See ways to apply for health coverage.
3
Get “Eligibility Results” right away
Submit your application to see if you qualify for:
- A Marketplace health insurance plan with savings, like tax credits to help pay monthly premiums, or lower copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
- Free or low-cost coverage through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
- See if you’ll save. Get an estimate before you apply.
4
Enroll in health coverage
- Compare health plans and prices available in your area, and enroll in the one that best meets your needs.
- See how to pick a plan. Or, watch the video.
- Need dental coverage too? See 2 ways to get it.
- Pay your premium to your insurance company for your coverage to start.
- Ready to apply & enroll? Log in.
How to Choose a Plan in the Health Insurance Marketplace®
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After you enroll
- You’ll get a packet in the mail with your new insurance card and more information about your health plan. Start using your coverage.
- If you need to make changes to your plan, you can do so if you are moving, having a baby, or adopting a child.
- If your income or household changes, update your application as soon as possible. Your coverage options and savings may be impacted.
- If you’re eligible for Medicaid or CHIP, you’ll hear from your state about enrollment and next steps.