Open Enrollment
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) allows for open enrollment at the end of each calendar year. It is during this time that you are able to elect or change health insurance plans WITHOUT having a qualifying event. The open enrollment period for 2018 plans starts November 1, 2017 and is scheduled to end on December 15, 2017.
If you need coverage outside of these dates, you may still be able to enroll if you have a qualifying life event. These events include marriage, divorce, loss of other coverage, new baby, a permanent move outside of your current health insurance’s service area, etc.
Even if you have current coverage, it's a good idea to shop around during open enrollment. Plans, rates, even provider networks can change from year to year – shopping your health insurance coverage could save you money!
When you shop your coverage through Weis Insurance Agency, we review the following:
Tax Credit / Subsidy Eligibility
2017 Income Guidelines (applies to 2018 coverage)
| Persons In Household | 2017 Federal poverty level for continental U.S. | Premium subsidy threshold (400% of federal poverty level) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $12,060 | $48,240 |
| 2 | $16,240 | $64,960 |
| 3 | $20,420 | $81,860 |
| 4 | $24,600 | $94,400 |
| 5 | $28,780 | $115,120 |
| 6 | $32,960 | $131,840 |
| 7 | $37,140 | 148,560 |
| 8 | $41,320 | 165,280 |
Depending on your household size and income, you may be eligible for a tax credit that can greatly reduce the monthly cost of your health insurance coverage! PLEASE NOTE: 2018 renewal rates were sent out WITHOUT any revision to your tax credit. In most cases, tax credits have GREATLY increased. You must either call our office with your updated, estimated 2018 income, OR log on to your account at www.healthcare.gov to update your income and tax credits!
Benefits
We review your own personal health insurance needs to make certain you aren’t “over-buying” for your particular situation. We will review deductibles, copays, prescription coverage, etc to make certain your health plan is the best possible fit.
Networks
We closely review our insurance carriers’ preferred provider networks to make certain you have access to the providers you need the most.
The Affordable Care Act allows for tax credits (also known as subsidies) for certain individuals and families based on their household income. These subsidies can be applied to your monthly health insurance bill, making coverage more affordable. Qualifications range from single person households making $48,420 or less, to a four person family with a household income of $98,400 or less.
Other Options
For 2018, Weis Insurance has contracted with an insurance alternative - a Christian HealthShare organization that may be an alternative to traditional insurance plans. While this may not be for everyone, we are offering it as an option to those that do not qualify for a significant tax credit, as well as to those that have been priced out of the traditional health insurance market. Contact our office today for a quote - you can enroll in these plans YEAR-ROUND.
Why should you shop for personal health insurance with Weis Insurance Agency?
Tax Credits
We can help you apply for tax credits/subsidies that can significantly lower your monthly premiums. All information is entered through the Health Insurance Marketplace system.
Service
Our assistance does not come at an extra charge to the customer. Our licensed insurance agents will provide you with personal help and advice when you need it, at no extra cost to you. Our service does not end the day you purchase your policy – our agents go out of their way to assist customers with any claims issues, premium billings, network questions, etc. Not sure if we can help? ASK US! We would love to show you why we are one of the largest Health Insurance agencies in Central Illinois.
Selection
Weis Insurance Agency will review all available plans in our area, both off AND on the Health Insurance Marketplace. If you don't qualify for a tax credit at this time, we still have a wide range of health insurance plans that have guaranteed approval during the open enrollment period!
Do you prefer to review / input your own information, but want the comfort of having a servicing agent should a problem arise?
No problem! Simply go to www.healthcare.gov, and enter in the name of one of our agents. You can have the benefit of enrolling in coverage on your own time, but can still have the security knowing that a local agent can help with any future issues that may arise! Please feel free to contact our office, however, if you need assistance in selecting a plan or have issues on the website.
