USA–Since November 15, 2014, Americans have been able to receive health insurance coverage through the Marketplace during the open enrollment period. We have now created a quick-start guide for you to understand the basics of the Health Insurance Marketplace.
But before we begin, help double the impact: UNITED SIKHS is providing one-on-one enrollment assistance in New Jersey entirely supported by private funding. A generous funder has offered to match the money we raise SO PLEASE DONATE WHAT YOU CAN, $20, $50– IT ALL HELPS.
Last year, UNITED SIKHS assisted over 350 community members and reached out to over 5,000. We are depending on the generosity of community members like you to reach our goals of assisting everyone in need in our community.
So,let’s get started:
What is the Marketplace?
The Marketplace provides an easy way to get health insurance that works for you and your family. You can look at different health plans, compare monthly costs, and enroll in the plan you want.
Who can apply for health insurance?
Individuals and families all over the country can shop for, compare, and enroll in coverage that is affordable and meets their needs. Consumers can enroll in a new plan, renew their current plan, or shop for a new one from Nov. 15 – Feb. 15, 2015.
How do I begin looking for coverage?
Visit www.healthcare.gov to enroll and follow the steps to get coverage. If you need more assistance, contact UNITED SIKHS at 718-441-6644 or find local assistance at https://localhelp.healthcare.gov. You can also call the marketplace at 1-800-318-2596. Depending on your income, financial assistance is available to help you find affordable coverage.
Is assistance available in languages other than English?
The Marketplace is offering language assistance for those who are more comfortable in their primary language. Simply call the Marketplace at 1-800-318-2596 and ask for an interpreter.
UNITED SIKHS is providing personal assistance to community members in New York and New Jersey. Call us at 718-441-6644 for an appointment. Services are available in Punjabi, English, Hindi, and Gujarati.
For more information about health reform and resources available in English and Asian and Pacific Islander languages, visit our partners at Action for Health Justice.
What if I am an immigrant?
Most immigrants who have immigration documentation are eligible for health insurance. But, it is important to note that even if you are not eligible for coverage, you can still apply on behalf of other family members. Immigrants are encouraged to apply and their immigration information will only be used to verify eligibility.
What do I need for the Marketplace Application?
– Social security number
– Immigration documents (if applicable)
– Income information for all earning members of the household (this can include W-2 forms, pay-stubs, tax returns, etc.)
– Previous or current insurance information for all members who have insurance
What is the deadline for enrollment?
The deadline for open enrollment is February 15, 2015. After February 15, you will only be allowed to enroll in health insurance if you qualify for a special enrollment period. For more information on special enrollment periods, call or email us.
You are able to apply for Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) any time of the year if you qualify. Medicaid and CHIP rules differ by state, so click here for more information.
Have a question we didn’t answer?
We’re here to help! Contact us at 718-441-6644 or email us at ceed-usa@unitedsikhs.org.
UNITED SIKHS is a part of Action for Health Justice (AHJ), a national coalition dedicated to ensuring AAs and NHPIs realize the benefits of the new health law. AHJ is the only national strategy group working to reach and enroll AAs and NHPIs through one-on-one assistance, in person, to those who need help navigating the enrollment process or require assistance in Asian and Pacific Islander languages. The work is crucial to reaching a community where one in three has difficulty, speaking, writing, or reading English.
Once again, we are providing one-on-one enrollment assistance in New Jersey entirely supported by private funding. A generous funder has offered to match the money we raise so please donate today.
Issued By:
Rucha Kavathe
Project Manager
Community Education & Empowerment Directorate (CEED)
UNITED SIKHS
