The annual open enrollment period for all individuals who buy their own health insurance and are under 65, opens on November 1st. It will remain open from November 1, 2015 until January 31, 2016. This is the only time you can purchase individual health insurance for 2016 or renew or change your existing plan for 2016. Outside of this enrollment window, you must have a special circumstance to enroll.
We are expecting big changes this year from some companies especially in the Triangle. BCBSNC has requested almost a 40% price increase. They are also forcing all Marketplace clients in to one of two restricted networks with no more out of area coverage except for emergencies in NC. We are still waiting for full details as to exactly what these plans will actually look like.
United and Coventry/Aetna are also still on the marketplace. Both requested much smaller price increases for 2016. This may be a year where many families will be open to alternative coverage to dodge the large premium increase.
Remember an independent agent like us are free to use. We can help you whether you are new to enrolling or looking for renewal options. The price is the price for all plans set by the NC Dept of Insurance. We can help you evaluate all three options and truly come up with the best fit for your family.