Now that you're enrolled in a health plan for 2021, you probably have questions about how to get the most out of your new coverage. We’re here to help, even after you enroll.

Does my new plan cover my prescriptions?

Your plan will help pay the cost of certain prescriptions. You may be able to buy other medications, but those on your plan’s list of covered drugs (formulary) will usually be less expensive. Visit your insurance company’s website (or call them directly), and review your Summary of Benefits and Coverage for a list of covered drugs.

How can I find a doctor in my plan?

Most health plans give you the best deal on services when you see a doctor who has a contract with your health plan. While you may be able to see doctors who don’t contract with your plan, visiting an "in-network" provider usually means you’ll have lower out-of-pocket costs. Learn how to find a doctor in your plan.

How can I use my new coverage to improve my health?

Now that you have health coverage, learn what you can do to stay healthy and get the care you need by reading From Coverage to Care: Roadmap to Better Care and a Healthier You (PDF, 698 KB). Here you’ll find tips on how to make and prepare for an appointment.

Learn more about using your new Marketplace insurance.

To activate your 2021 health insurance plan, pay your first premium directly to the insurance company (not the Marketplace). Your coverage won’t start until you make payment, so follow their instructions carefully. You may be able to pay online at HealthCare.gov.

{% box %} Important: Continue to pay your monthly premiums to your health insurance company on time

If you don’t, they could end your coverage. {% endbox %}

How to pay your monthly premiums

• Follow these instructions to pay online.
• If your health insurance company doesn't accept online payment, they should have contacted you with next steps. Reach out to them if they haven’t.
• If you aren’t sure you're enrolled, find out if your health insurance is active by checking your online Marketplace account.
• If you think you're enrolled but have questions about your plan, check your plan materials.

Learn more about completing your enrollment by paying your premium.

The deadline for 2021 Marketplace insurance that starts January 1 has passed. If you missed it, you may still be able to get or change 2021 coverage 2 ways: with a Special Enrollment Period or through Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

Through a Special Enrollment Period

• If you experience certain types of life events, like losing health coverage, getting married, or having a baby, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to enroll in a Marketplace plan for 2021. See the full list of life changes that may qualify.
• You can also answer a few questions about your situation to see if you can still enroll or change for 2021.

Through Medicaid or CHIP

• Medicaid and CHIP provide free or low-cost health coverage to millions of Americans, including some low-income people, families and children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
• If you qualify, you can enroll right away. Select the second button, and answer a few questions to see if these options may be available to you.

This is the last call for 2021 Marketplace insurance that meets your needs and budget! Open Enrollment for 2021 Marketplace health plans ends Tuesday, December 15. There are just 5 days left to enroll in, re-enroll in, or change 2021 Marketplace coverage that starts January 1.

Don’t delay: Apply & enroll for 2021

• New to HealthCare.gov? Create an account to fill out an application for the first time.
• Have 2020 Marketplace coverage? Log in to update your application, and compare plans and enroll for 2021. If you don’t, you could miss out on new plans, and your savings could be incorrect. This means you could end up paying more for your monthly premium or owing money on your federal taxes.

Enrollment resources

• Consider these things before choosing a plan.
• Get tips and troubleshooting application assistance, like if you need help logging in or forgot your password.
• See the different ways to get help completing your application.

You have 2 weeks to enroll in Marketplace health insurance for 2021. If you enrolled for 2020, you have until December 15 to change or update your plan for 2021. If you don’t take action you may be automatically enrolled for 2021, but may miss out on new options.

How to update & compare for 2021

• Even if you want to keep the same plan for 2021, log in and update your application with any expected income and household changes for the year ahead. There may be new plans that better fit your situation.
• Updating your information will also make sure your 2021 financial help is correct. Otherwise, you could wind up paying more for your monthly premium or owing money when you file your federal income taxes.
• Once your information is updated, compare your current plan with other available options for 2021. These steps can help you be confident you have the right coverage for your household next year.

Learn more about changing and renewing coverage for 2021.

This holiday season, gift yourself the peace of mind that comes with having health coverage. You have until Tuesday, December 15, 2020 to enroll in or change health insurance for 2021.

Putting your health first in 2021

• Get your recommended health screenings. You can use your Marketplace health coverage when you’re sick and when you’re well to help you live a healthy life.
• All Marketplace plans cover a set of preventive services, like shots and screening tests, at no cost to you when delivered by a doctor in your plan’s network.
• Marketplace plans also cover 10 essential health benefits, including emergency services; pregnancy, maternity and newborn care; and prescription drugs. See the full list of what Marketplace plans cover.

Apply & enroll for 2021 today

• New to HealthCare.gov? Create an account to fill out an application for the first time.
• Have 2020 Marketplace coverage? Log in to update your application, and compare plans and enroll for 2021.

Important: 2021 Open Enrollment ends Tuesday, December 15, 2020! You have less than one month to enroll in or change Marketplace health insurance for coverage that starts January 1, 2021. If you miss the deadline, you can only enroll in or change your health plan for 2021 if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

Don’t delay: Start an application

• New to HealthCare.gov? Create an account to fill out an application for the first time.
• Have 2020 Marketplace coverage? Log in to update your application, and compare plans and enroll for 2021.

Need help before you apply?

• Find quick answers to your most common enrollment questions.
• Get help filling out your application: By phone, with an assister, or with an agent/broker.
• Use this checklist (PDF, 160 MB) to gather the documents you'll need to apply. Doing so beforehand will make the application process easier.

Open Enrollment for 2021 health insurance ends Tuesday, December 15, 2020. Before you apply, you can get an idea of what your costs may be by answering a few quick questions. The results may surprise you!

3 easy steps to see if you’ll save on 2021 Marketplace coverage

See if your income is in the range to save by telling us:

• The number of people in your household, even if they don’t need health coverage
• Your state
• Your 2021 household income estimate (use this calculator for help)

Note: This is just an estimate. You’ll learn your exact savings when you fill out an application.

Apply for exact savings

• New to HealthCare.gov? Create an account to fill out an application for the first time.
• Have 2020 Marketplace coverage? Log in to update your application, and compare plans for 2021.

You have until Tuesday, December 15, 2020 to enroll in or change 2021 Marketplace health coverage that starts January 1, 2021. Enrolling at HealthCare.gov may be easier than you think. Here are 3 reasons to enroll today.

Why enroll in or change 2021 health insurance

• You may be eligible for savings that lower your out-of-pocket costs. Enter your household information to see if your income is in the range to save. You’ll see exact savings and plan prices when you apply.
• With one application, you’ll see if you’re eligible for free or low-cost health coverage through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). We’ll review your application, and if anyone in your household may be eligible, we’ll send your information to your state agency. They’ll contact you about enrolling.
• Nobody plans to get sick or hurt, but illness and accidents happen even to healthy people. Health coverage can help protect you from unexpected medical debt.

Get started & apply

• New to HealthCare.gov? Create an account to fill out an application for the first time.
• Have 2020 Marketplace coverage? Log in to update your application, and compare plans for 2021. New plans with better prices may be available.

The 2021 Health Insurance Marketplace® is open for business! You have until December 15 to apply for new 2021 health insurance, or renew, change, or update your 2020 health plan for 2021. Coverage starts January 1, 2021.

Important: If you miss the deadline, the only way you’ll be eligible to enroll in or change your health plan for 2021 is if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

How to start or update an application online

• If you’re new to HealthCare.gov, create an account.
• If you already have an account, just log in to start or update an application.
• If you have questions or need help with your application, you can connect with someone on the phone. Call Center Representatives are available most days (except certain holidays) to support your enrollment needs.

See other ways to apply.

Starting November 1, you can enroll in or renew a 2021 Marketplace plan. As you get ready to submit your application, here are a few important reminders:

• Open Enrollment lasts 6 weeks and ends December 15, 2020. If you enroll within this timeframe, your coverage will start January 1, 2021. If you miss the deadline for 2021 coverage, you may have to wait an entire year to enroll in coverage for 2022 (unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period).
• If you’re returning to HealthCare.gov and want to keep your current plan for next year, you should report any changes to the Marketplace, like higher or lower income, adding or losing household members, or getting offers of other health coverage. Changes may affect your coverage options and the savings you’re eligible for.
• When you apply, we’ll also tell you if you qualify for savings that can make Marketplace insurance less expensive, or for free or low-cost health coverage through Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

Before you enroll in or renew a 2021 plan starting November 1, you can preview 2021 plans with personalized price estimates. Important: This is just an estimate. You'll see exact prices when you submit an application.

See 2021 plans & prices

• Answer a few quick questions about your expected 2021 household income and family members to see health insurance plans and estimated prices.
• Learn how to estimate your income so you get the right amount of savings.

Come back November 1 through December 15 to submit your application, choose a plan, and enroll.

Open Enrollment for 2021 coverage starts November 1. Plans have different premiums and out-of-pocket costs and may differ in the quality of service and benefits they provide. Knowing a few things before you apply can make the process for choosing a plan simpler.

Things to think about when comparing Marketplace plans

• There are 4 categories of health insurance plans: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. These categories show how you and your plan share costs. Plan categories have nothing to do with quality of care.
• HealthCare.gov offers health insurance plan quality ratings (or "star ratings"), that reflect member experience, medical care, and health plan administration. The ratings let you quickly compare plans based on quality.
• When choosing a plan, it’s a good idea to think about your total health care costs. You pay a monthly bill to your insurance company (a "premium"), even if you don’t use medical services that month. You pay out-of-pocket costs, including a deductible, when you get care.
• Some plan types allow you to use almost any doctor or health care facility. Other plans limit your choices or charge you more if you use providers outside their network.

Learn more about choosing the health plan that right’s for your family.

With Open Enrollment for 2021 less than a month away, make sure you’re prepared. Whether you’re enrolling for the first or fifth time or planning to renew your current plan, taking small steps to get ready now can help the application process run smoothly when you apply for coverage starting November 1.

3 quick & easy ways to get ready for Open Enrollment

• Learn how the Marketplace works by reading these quick tips. If you come across an unfamiliar term, visit our glossary.
• See if your income is in the range to get help with costs. Enter your household and expected income information, and we'll show you how much you may save. You'll know the exact amount you'll pay after you submit an application.
• When you fill out your application, you'll be asked to predict your income. Marketplace savings are based on your expected household income for 2021, not 2020. See what counts as income so you’ll make an accurate estimate.

Mark your calendar: Open Enrollment for a 2021 Marketplace plan starts November 1, exactly one month from today.

Other important Open Enrollment deadlines:

• Open Enrollment runs from November 1 through December 15, 2020. Coverage starts January 1, 2021.
• If you don’t enroll in a plan by December 15, you can only get 2021 Marketplace coverage if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

Here’s how you can get ready today to apply for 2021 coverage.

With Open Enrollment for 2021 coverage just over a month away, sign up today for deadline reminders and useful tips so you don’t miss out on late-breaking information.

How to connect with the Marketplace

• Get updates via email or text. Visit HealthCare.gov and enter your email address under "Get Important News & Updates." Click "Sign Up."
• Connect with us on social media. Follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook for news, interactive content, and important updates.
• Find someone to help answer your enrollment questions. Enter your ZIP code for a list of groups and people in your area. Some offer help in languages other than English and other specialized services.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone 6 months and older get a yearly flu shot by the end of October. By getting the shot, you’re helping to lower the spread of flu-related illnesses, hospitalizations, and even death.

3 more reasons it’s important to get your flu shot:

• With Marketplace health insurance, your flu shot is free from a provider in your plan's network. Immunization vaccines are a covered preventive care benefit.
• While babies, children, and older people are most vulnerable, no one is immune from the flu.
• Getting vaccinated is more important than ever. Getting the shot helps reduce illness and preserve health care resources as the country battles the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) emergency.

According to the CDC, the flu vaccine doesn’t increase the risk of getting COVID-19. When you get your shot, try your best to maintain social distancing, avoid waiting areas, and always wear a mask.

All plans offered in the Marketplace, cover a set of 10 essential health benefits, including ambulatory patient services, emergency care, and pregnancy, maternity, and newborn care.

See the full list of covered essential health benefits. Specific services covered can vary based on your state’s requirements. Some plans may offer vision, dental, and medical management programs. When comparing plans, you’ll see exactly what each plan offers.

Also covered: Preventive care & coverage for pre-existing conditions

Marketplace plans cover a set of preventive services, like shots and screening tests, at no cost to you when delivered by a provider in your plan’s network.

No insurance plan can reject you, charge you more, or refuse to pay for essential health benefits for any condition you had before your coverage started, including pregnancy.

Learn more about what Marketplace health insurance plans cover.

If you recently lost health coverage, got married, had a baby, or experienced another life event, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to enroll in or change Marketplace coverage for the rest of 2020.

What counts as a life event?

There are 4 basic types of qualifying life events:

• Loss of health coverage, like losing your job-based or student health plan
• Changes in household, like getting married or divorced, having a baby, or adopting a child
• Changes in residence, like moving to a different ZIP code or state
• Other changes that impact your income or status, like gaining membership in a federally recognized tribe

How to apply with a Special Enrollment Period

• Not sure you qualify? Answer a few questions to see if you can still enroll in or change a plan for 2020.
• If you’re eligible, start an application for the first time or log into an existing account to get started.

Learn more about applying for Marketplace coverage through a Special Enrollment Period.

Here are some important Open Enrollment dates for 2021 coverage to mark on your calendar:

Key Open Enrollment dates

• Open Enrollment runs from Sunday, November 1 through Tuesday, December 15, 2020. Coverage begins January 1, 2021.
• If you don’t enroll in a plan by December 15, you can’t get 2021 coverage unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

Looking for coverage for the rest of 2020? Answer these questions to see if you can apply through a Special Enrollment Period. You can also enroll in Medicaid or CHIP any time, if you’re eligible. Coverage can begin immediately.