Yes! Open enrollment for 2015 health insurance runs until February 15, 2015.
This means you can purchase a new individual or family health insurance plan — for any reason — until that date.
Once open enrollment ends, however, you will not be able to purchase 2015 individual or family coverage unless you have a qualifying event.
Effective Dates for 2015 Health Insurance
The date your 2015 coverage is effective depends upon the date you enroll:
| If you enroll between … | Your coverage will begin … |
| January 16, 2015 – February 15, 2015 | March 1, 2015 |
Can I Switch Plans During Open Enrollment?
Yes! If you are currently insured, but would like to change your plan, you may do so for any reason during open enrollment. Keep in mind the effective dates shown above, and make sure you time the cancellation of your old plan so you don’t have a gap in coverage.
Deductible Will Reset
But there is an important caveat to switching plans between now and February 15.
All Affordable Care Act-compliant individual or family health insurance plans (vs. employer-sponsored coverage) run on a calendar year basis: from January 1 to December 31.
If you are currently covered by a plan and switch to a new one effective February 1 or March 1, your deductible will reset when you enroll in new coverage. Any medical bills you incurred before switching plans will not count toward your new plan’s deductible.
Consider All Options
If you are thinking of changing plans, make sure you consider all options. Also be sure you are aware of how a plan change will affect you.
If you are eligible for a subsidy, you can review your options here: www.enrollvirginianow.com.
If you are not eligible for a subsidy, you can get instant quotes here: www.vamedicalplans.com.
We are available to discuss your situation and look forward to helping you determine the best course of action. Please call our office 703-707-8270 or 1-888-396-2341.
