HARRISBURG Thousands of Pennsylvanians now have the opportunity to enroll or re-enroll in the Health Insurance Marketplace. Open Enrollment began November 1, 2015 for coverage beginning as early as January 1, 2016. Consumers who are reenrolling must update their information or select a different plan by December 15 to ensure tax credits and subsidies remain active. According to Department of Human Services (HHS) analysis, about 8 out of 10 returning consumers will be able to buy a plan with premiums of less than $100 dollars a month after tax credits; and about 7 out of 10 will have a plan available for less than $75 a month.

Consumers receiving tax credits that did not file 2014 federal income taxes and reconcile their premium tax credits will not be able to continue receiving tax credits unless they file and reenroll by updating their marketplace application. Most people must have health coverage or pay a fee. If you didn’t have coverage in 2016, there is a penalty of either 2.5% of your income or $695 per adult ($347.50 per child) – whichever is higher.

The Pennsylvania Association of Community Health Centers (PACHC) and its statewide membership of community-based healthcare organizations are able to provide free, personal, no pressure, no obligation, enrollment assistance to individuals seeking the security of health insurance coverage. Federally certified health center-based enrollment assisters-certified application counselors and navigators-are trained and ready to help individuals to navigate the enrollment process, including plan options and cost.

During the last two enrollment periods, PACHC and its statewide membership of community-based healthcare organizations provided assistance to more than 51,000 individuals seeking the security of health insurance coverage

Individuals seeking primary care or information on enrollment assistance can locate a local community health center using the Community Health Center PA Directory on the PACHC website at www.pachc.org/health_find.html or by calling the PACHC toll-free hotline, 1-866-944-CARE (1-866-944-2273).