HealthCare.gov Open Enrollment Deadline Dec. 15

Dec. 15. is the deadline to sign up for coverage at HealthCare.gov that will begin on Jan. 1.

Dec. 15. is the deadline to sign up for coverage at HealthCare.gov that will begin on Jan. 1.

The days just prior to last year’s open enrollment deadline saw the biggest surge of sign-ups.

Since open enrollment began on Nov. 1, 2015, over 2.8 million people have signed up for a plan at HealthCare.gov.

Those who still need coverage should know the following;

1. You must sign up by the Dec. 15 deadline for coverage starting on Jan. 1.

2. Approximately eight out of 10 people who enroll in health coverage through HealthCare.gov qualify for financial help to make their monthly premiums more affordable. Most people can find plans with premiums for less than $75 a month after tax credits.

3. If you had coverage through HealthCare.gov for 2015, you should come back to update your information and compare your options for 2016. You could save money by switching to a new plan. Last year, returning consumers who shopped and switched plans saved nearly $400. Review your options by visiting HealthCare.gov.

4. Every year, HealthCare.gov finds new ways to make signing up simpler. You can even apply on your tablet. During the last open enrollment period, it took most people about 10 minutes to submit an application.

5. 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 click away. Call 1-800-318-2596 or visit localhelp.healthcare.gov.