Florida Health Choices Marketplace Opens for 2015 Enrollment Period

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Floridians seeking comprehensive health insurance will have the option to shop for affordable coverage beginning Sunday, November 1. The federal mandate, which requires Americans to obtain coverage under the Affordable Care Act, makes the next three months crucial for Floridians that are renewing coverage, or shopping for the first time.

The federal penalty for the uninsured is set to rise during the 2016 open enrollment period, when individuals will be required to pay the higher of the two amounts: 2.5% of yearly household income or $695 per person. With the increase, penalties will be at the forefront of conversation for Floridians who have remained eligible for coverage, but opted out. Floridians must purchase health insurance by January 31 to avoid these penalties.

While many receive health insurance coverage through their employers, millions must shop for insurance on their own. Florida Health Choices is a comprehensive resource, from which consumers can learn more about their health, dental and vision choices – both through Healthcare.gov and in the private marketplace – allowing them to compare and chose the option that works best for them.

“Selecting health insurance can be complicated, especially if you know you’re facing a penalty for not enrolling,” said Florida Health Choices CEO Naff. “We have a team ready to walk consumers through all of their choices and help them select from the maximum number of options available.”

The Florida Health Choices Corporation was established by the State of Florida with the goal of increasing access to affordable, quality health care by creating a competitive market for purchasing health insurance and health services. Since its inception, Florida’s Health Insurance Marketplace has provided consumers with a user-friendly experience when searching for and purchasing health plans that range in coverage and price.

After February 15, 2016, there is an exception in which individuals can enroll in a 2016 insurance plan only if they have a life event that qualifies them for a Special Enrollment Period, such as a change in family status (for example, marriage or birth of a child) or loss of other health coverage.

About Florida Health Choices
Florida’s Health Insurance Marketplace and Florida Health Choices, Inc. were established by the State of Florida to provide improved access to affordable, quality health care for residents statewide. For more information, visit www.MyFloridaChoices.org or find us on Facebook.