Starting on April 1, Iowa residents will have a new opportunity to enroll in health coverage through the Market place and get lower pricing. Anyone who is not eligible for insurance through Medicare, Medicaid, or employer-based insurance is eligible for Market place insurance under the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) provisions.
New rules to expand coverage options for those who currently have ACA insurance will expand subsidies and lower monthly premiums. Anyone currently enrolled or those who are uninsured and need coverage can take advantage of the expanded financial help. Even most high-income earners will now be able to qualify for the lower-cost plans.
Additionally, those who are uninsured and have received any unemployment compensation benefits in 2021 will have special access to free or reduced-cost plans. Iowa residents now have until Aug. 15 to enroll in the program.
Premiums will decrease, on average, by $50 per person per month or by $85 per policy per month. Four out of five enrollees will find a plan for $10 or less/month after premium tax credits.
Iowa Navigator is available to assist people with the process of signing up and applying for subsidies. Those already enrolled must update their application to receive the new rates. Anyone in Iowa can call (515) 978-9570 to get free enrollment assistance. Consultations are available over the telephone or through a telehealth option, allowing callers to see their application completed in real time. There is no charge for enrollment assistance. The agency receives federal funding to assist consumers. More information is available at www.acanavigator.com.