Health Insurance Marketplace (Exchange)

As part of the Affordable Care Act, the government has set up Health Insurance Marketplaces (also called Exchanges) where health insurance companies can sell their plans. Some of these Marketplaces are run by a state, some by the federal government, and some by both working together.

The marketplaces are another way for people to buy health insurance. You can shop online, by mail, by phone or in person with trained helpers called Navigators – or with insurance brokers or agents.

There is a set time period each year (called Open Enrollment) when you can compare and select a health insurance plan. The Open Enrollment is November 1 through January 15, in most states. After the open enrollment period ends, you will not be able to change your coverage or buy a plan through the Marketplace unless you have a qualifying life event (such as getting married or having a baby), until the next annual open enrollment period.

In the individual marketplace, you can:

  • Choose from a range of insurance plans at different costs and levels of coverage.
  • Compare plans side by side and use an online calculator to find out what each one will cost.
  • Complete an application for coverage to find out if you qualify for a government tax credit or subsidy to help pay your premium.
  • Enroll in a plan.

To find out about your own state's Marketplace or Exchange, visit Healthcare.gov.

Resources

 

References to UnitedHealthcare pertain to each individual company or other UnitedHealthcare affiliated companies.

Insurance products and services offered are underwritten by All Savers Insurance Company, Health Plan of Nevada, Inc., UnitedHealthcare Community Plan, Inc., UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company, UnitedHealthcare of Alabama, Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Florida, Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Louisiana, Inc., UnitedHealthcare of the Mid-Atlantic, Inc., UnitedHealthcare of the Midwest, UnitedHealthcare of Mississippi, Inc., UnitedHealthcare of New England, Inc.,  UnitedHealthcare of New York, Inc., UnitedHealthcare of North Carolina, Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Ohio, Inc., UnitedHealthcare of Pennsylvania, Inc., Oxford Health Plans (NJ), Inc.

Each company is a separate entity and is not responsible for another’s financial or contractual obligations.

Administrative services are provided by UnitedHealthcare Services, Inc. or by related companies.