5 Things Immigrants and Mixed-Status Families Should Know about Enrolling in Health Coverage Under the ACA
The 2018 Open Enrollment period under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) continues. So it’s important that those enrolling in coverage for themselves or on behalf of their loved ones have the information they need to get covered by the December 15th deadline.
Immigrants and mixed-status families face unique circumstances when it comes to enrolling in health coverage. But help is available.
There are many resources to help ensure that immigrants and mixed-status families have the information and the guidance they need to enroll in quality, affordable health coverage.
Here are five things immigrants and mixed-status families and those assisting them should know about enrolling in coverage under the ACA during the Open Enrollment 2018 period:
5 THINGS IMMIGRANTS AND MIXED-STATUS FAMILIES NEED TO KNOW
- Eligibility for ACA marketplace coverage has not changed: The federal eligibility guidelines for those who can enroll in marketplace coverage have not changed. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other qualified immigrants remain eligible to enroll in marketplace coverage.
- Federal privacy protections remain in place: Information provided on the health application can only be used to verify eligibility for coverage. In addition, only those individuals enrolling in coverage need to provide their personal information and immigration status when they sign-up for health insurance.
- Those without an eligible immigration status can apply on behalf of their eligible dependents: While those without an eligible immigration status cannot get coverage for themselves through the ACA, they can apply for coverage on behalf of their eligible dependents. An undocumented parent, for example, can apply on behalf of an eligible child. Those who are not applying for coverage for themselves will not be asked if they have an eligible immigration status.
- Have your immigration documentation ready: A variety of immigration documents can be used to verify immigration status on the health application. Having this information readily available will help the enrollment process go smoothly.
- Free, in-person assistance is available: You can find free, in-person enrollment help in your area at healthcare.gov.
RELATED
- 3 Things You Need to Do to Enroll on HealthCare.gov
- What You Need to Know About Enrolling in a State-Based Marketplace
- 5 Tips for Effective Grocery Shopping this Holiday Season
KEEP THE OPEN ENROLLMENT 2018 DEADLINE IN MIND
It is important for everyone who is eligible to enroll in health coverage, and pay their first month’s premium by December 15, to ensure they have health coverage beginning January 1, 2018.
Every family and every situation is different. So please visit healthcare.gov or cuidadodesalud.gov today. There you can learn about your health coverage options so you can make the best decision for you and your family.
