Press Release

BOSTON – January 25, 2016 – Open Enrollment at the Massachusetts Health Connector, when anyone that needs health insurance can apply and potentially get access to financial help paying for coverage, ends on Jan. 31, and assistance applying is available throughout the state for those who still need health insurance.

The Health Connector is the only way people in Massachusetts can access low cost health plans through the ConnectorCare program and federal advance premium tax credits. For those who apply and pick a plan by Jan. 31, their coverage will start on March 1. People that miss the deadline may be locked out of insurance until the next Open Enrollment period, and might face a tax penalty as a result.

“During this Open Enrollment period, more than 30,000 people have signed up for new coverage through the Health Connector, and a vast majority are getting help paying for their monthly premiums,” said Louis Gutierrez, the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Health Connector. “As we near the January 31 deadline, our walk-in centers and Navigators across the Commonwealth are still available to help people finish an application and pick the plan that best suits their needs.”

The Health Connector’s ConnectorCare program offers eligible applicants plans with low premiums (many under $100), low co-pays, and no deductibles. The ConnectorCare program is open to individuals making up to $35,310, and families of four earning up to $72,750. Advance premium tax credits are available to people making up to $47,000, and families of four up to $97,000, which can help reduce monthly premium prices on Health Connector plans.

After Open Enrollment ends, some people without coverage may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period for reasons such as losing employer-sponsored insurance or qualifying for subsidized coverage, but anyone can apply for any reason during Open Enrollment. Those needing health insurance can find the online application at MAhealthconnector.org. If applicants need help with the process, they can find assistance throughout the state:

• The Health Connector operates six walk-in centers, in Boston, Brockton, Fall River, Lowell, Springfield and Worcester
• The Health Connector sponsors Navigator agencies in 14 communities around the state, with people ready to provide application assistance
• Additional Certified Application Councilors can be found at hospitals, community health centers, and other locations around the state

To find local, in-person assistance, applicants can visit MAhealthconnector.org and click the “Help Center” button at the top of the homepage or call the Health Connector at 877-623-6765.