Open Enrollment 2022 Is Here

Open Enrollment 2022 – What You Should Know

Open enrollment is the period when you can change your insurance plan or sign up for a new insurance plan. Open enrollment generally occurs in the winter months, so you can choose your coverage for the upcoming year. This period is limited, and it is difficult to sign up for a new plan outside of this window. Thus, you should analyze your current health plan and decide if you will need more or less coverage in the upcoming calendar year. 

Do you need to add a new family member to your plan? Do you want to increase your prescription drug coverage due to a new medical condition? Open enrollment is the time to consider these questions and choose a new health plan if needed. Here’s everything you need to know to navigate open enrollment 2022 and choose the best insurance to meet your family’s needs. 

When Is Open Enrollment 2022?

Open enrollment for 2022 begins November 1, 2021, and ends January 15, 2022. During this time, you can enroll in an individual or family plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Certain areas may have different open enrollment periods, as dictated by state law. Your policy start date is determined by the date you sign up for coverage. If you enroll on or before December 15, 2021, coverage begins on January 1, 2022. Coverage starts on February 1, 2022, if you register after December 15. 

What If I Miss Open Enrollment 2022? 

You may still be eligible for health insurance coverage if you fail to sign up for a health plan during the open enrollment period. If you have a qualifying life event, you can change or enroll in a new program at that time. A qualifying life event includes marriage, the birth or adoption of a child, or a long-distance move. 

If your family is considered low income, you could qualify to enroll in a plan outside of open enrollment. This option may be available to those who earn 150% of the national poverty level. The maximum income is $19,320 for individuals and $39,750 for a family with two kids. Enrollment options for low-income families occur every month, depending on the state in which you live. 

Another option if you miss open enrollment is enrolling in a short-term health policy. These policies generally provide up to a year of coverage. Short-term plans can be expensive, but they may be a good option for healthy individuals. Most short-term health plans do not provide coverage for pre-existing conditions. 

What Insurance Plans Are Available? 

If you are purchasing coverage from a state or federal insurance exchange, insurers are generally required to cover essential health benefits. You cannot be denied coverage due to a pre-existing medical condition. The coverage available includes: 

• Preventive care
• Emergency care services
• Prescription drug coverage
• Maternity care
• Mental health care services 
• Substance abuse treatment
• Pediatric care

Health insurance plans purchased during open enrollment 2022 through the marketplace have out-of-pocket costs capped. These maximum costs are $8,700 for individuals and $17,400 for families. However, coverage may vary depending on your plan and your state.

How Much Does Coverage Cost During Open Enrollment?

The cost of your health plan will vary depending on the size of your family, your location, and the coverage level. However, the average price of policies purchased on the insurance marketplace was between $313 and $710 per month. Most states are expected to see an increase in healthcare costs in 2022. Actual rate changes are yet to be determined and must be approved by each state. 

What Other Benefits Should I Consider? 

You should consider your other insurance policies during open enrollment. Dental, vision, life, or other insurance options may be helpful to your family. You may also choose to alter your current coverage levels. Consider these other insurance benefits during open enrollment: 

• Dental: Many marketplace health plans include an option to add a separate insurance policy. Some policies include particular dental care for adults, and many have dental care for children. Check the dental coverage available before signing up for a new health policy.
• Vision: Vision coverage is not available through the federal marketplace, but it may be available through specific state marketplaces. You can also purchase vision coverage directly from an insurance company.
• Life insurance: Open enrollment may be an excellent time to consider life insurance. Experts generally recommend carrying insurance if you are your family’s primary income earner. The amount of your coverage should be at least five times your annual salary. 

You may want to consider other types of insurance, including long-term care insurance, disability coverage, and supplemental medical coverage. 

Work With an Insurance Expert

Are you looking for insurance in Sonoma County, California? Sackett & Associates Insurance Services has provided insurance to individuals, families, and businesses for more than 40 years. Get ready for open enrollment season 2022 now by exploring your insurance options. Contact us today to set up an appointment with one of our insurance advisors.