Congressmember Salud Carbajal and Dana Gamble of County Public Health are urging people to take advantage of the open enrollment period for health insurance, which runs until January 31. They highlighted the affordability of some plans, with premiums starting at just $10 a month for certain income groups. During their discussion, Carbajal emphasized that only eight percent of Americans are currently uninsured for healthcare coverage, which is the lowest rate in U.S. history.
Carbajal also mentioned his role in passing the Inflation Reduction Act, which extends subsidies to lower premiums for middle-class and working-class families, allowing four out of five Americans to find a plan for $10 a month or less. Enrollment in the Affordable Care Act is open from November 1 to January 31, but those already enrolled must renew their coverage by December 15 to avoid an income tax fee based on family size. For example, an individual making $2,500 a month who misses the deadline will owe a $700 fee next year. It’s important to note that missing the sign-up period means that individuals will have to wait until October 2024 to sign up again.
For more information on open enrollment and how to apply for Covered California, individuals can visit the website or call (800) 300-0213 in either English or Spanish.