WILMINGTON, DE –U.S. Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons and Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester (all D-Del.) are reminding Delawareans that open enrollment begins today, November 1. The Open Enrollment period closes on December 15, 2017. Constituents should use www.Healthcare.gov or attend one of three open enrollment events being held throughout Delaware starting this weekend. Thanks to financial assistance, most consumers can find plan options with premiums from $50 to $100 per month.

“I encourage everyone to use the marketplace open enrollment period to get their free help from navigators up and down the state and review their options for coverage in 2018,” said Senator Carper. “Tax credits are available to help cover the cost of the premium, and some may find out they are eligible for Medicaid. Despite partisan politics down in Washington, the Affordable Care Act is still the law of the land, so don’t delay in getting covered.”

“Open enrollment is a great opportunity for Delawareans to shop around in the Health Insurance Marketplace and find a plan that works best for them, regardless of age, background, or pre-existing conditions,” said Senator Coons. “I would encourage everyone – whether you already have health insurance or not – to visit the Marketplace and explore plans and financial assistance that may be available.”

“As families budget for 2018, the beginning of health care open enrollment marks the time to shop around, research what discounts may be available, and select coverage for the upcoming year,” said Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester. “The health care exchange is a valuable resource for all families in accessing quality care, and a number of Delaware families may qualify for financial assistance in meeting their insurance costs. With a shortened open enrollment period this year, I recommend all Delawareans act now to explore what plans are available to them and to find out how to take advantage of free, in-person help in navigating the health care marketplace.”

There will be three special face-to-face events to help enroll Delawareans in all three counties beginning this week. Event details here:

  • Saturday, November 4 (9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) at the Wilmington Public Library
  • Saturday, November 11 (10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) at Dover Public Library
  • Saturday, November 18 (9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) at Milford Public Library

Key Reminders About Open Enrollment:

  • Sign up by December 15. Open Enrollment begins November 1, but you must take action by December 15, no matter if this is your first time getting covered or if you are returning to shop and save. Beat the rush and sign up early.
  • Coverage could be cheaper than you think. Last year, 8 in 10 people qualified for financial help to make their monthly premiums more affordable.
  • Shop and save. If you had coverage through HealthCare.gov for 2017, you should come back to update your information and compare your options for 2018. Every year, plans and prices change.
  • Those who choose to go without health insurance may have to pay a penalty. There is minimum penalty of $695 for not having health insurance.
  • Free help is available. If you have questions about signing up or want to talk through your options with a trained professional, free help is just a call or a click away. 1-800-318-2596 or visit localhelp.healthcare.gov.

 ###