Did you that as of today you can start buying your health insurance coverage on the exchanges in Illinois? There are many different plans you choose from based on: price, out-to-pocket costs, doctors in network, etc. Most people will have to have insurance in 2014 or face a fine. (Disclosure: I am currently covered under my husband's plan that he gets from work).
You will need a few things on hand before you can do this. Make sure you have the following paperwork available:
- tax returns or pay stubs,
- social security number,
- employer name, address, phone, and EIN (Employer Identification Number. You can find it on your W2)
- Policy numbers for any current health insurance you may have
- Any medication you are currently taking
- A list of your prefered doctors and hospitals.
Your next step is to go to www.getcoveredillinois.gov. I have heard that the site was crashing today just due to so many people trying to get on it. My best advice is to be patient. You can also get a paper application at state Department of Human Services offices or through several community groups. You can can find a location near you at localhelp.healthcare.gov.
I can't tell you what it is going to cost you. There are so many different factors that play into that like the size of you family, if you qualify for a subsidy, if you are smoker, etc. I have also heard that Cook County will pay less than southern Illinois. There are 4 categories of coverage — platinum, gold, silver, and bronze. Bronze plans will be the cheapest but only cover 60% of medical costs. Platinum plans will have higher premiums but will cover 90% of your medical costs.
Now, if you make less than 138% of the federal poverty level (about $15,800 for an individual and $32,500 for a family of 4), make sure you apply for Medicaid.
If you make up to 400% of the poverty level ($46,000 for a individual, $60,040 for a couple, and $94,200 for a family of four), you will qualify for tax credits or federal subsidies. Even if you make more than this, you can still by insurance on the exchanges. You just won't qualify for the tax credit or subsidies.
All plans on the exchange require the insurers to cover 10 basic services:
- maternity care
- prescription drugs
- emergency services
- mental health
- laboratory services
- hospitalization
They must also cover preexisting conditions and cover preventive care at no cost (flu shots, routine vaccinations, mammograms, etc).
I hope this helps you navigate the Illinois insurance exchanges!
You did your research. This gov’t shutdown really burns me up.
http://joycelansky.blogspot.com/2013/10/wordless-wednesday-bad-day.html
Good info!
This is so much info…and I am glad you help save me some time doing my own research.
Good for you…this is so important, and people read need the information!!
Great info!
so great you posted this for those in your state…it’s nerve wracking to lots of people.
I luck out that we have health insurance. And it is totally daunting so I was glad to do it.
I’m curious to find out how our insurance plan will change in 2014. I hope the changes won’t be too drastic!