How do I apply for Obamacare?

Want to apply for Obamacare but don't know how? You can apply for Obamacare health insurance here, and you can
Grab our free step-by-step guide to enrolling in Marketplace health insurance here.

For most people, you’ll be able to apply for Obamacare during the annual Open Enrollment Period (OEP). Open Enrollment is a six-week period every fall when anyone can enroll in an Obamacare plan for the upcoming year. If you’ve missed the Open Enrollment Period for a calendar year, you may still be able to apply for Obamacare if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).A Special Enrollment Period is triggered by what’s known as a Qualifying Life Event (QLE). QLEs come in three general categories: Loss of coverage, changes in your household, and changes residence. If you qualify for an SEP, you can shop Marketplace health insurance plans and apply for Obamacare anytime, regardless of whether it’s Open Enrollment or not. 

Applying online

Whether it’s Open Enrollment or you’ve qualified for a Special Enrollment Period, applying for Affordable Care Act/Obamacare health coverage is easy. You can apply through HealthSherpa, HealthCare.gov, or your state-based exchange. Don’t forget that HealthSherpa is a designated partner of HealthCare.gov. Applying for a health plan through HealthSherpa comes with no added fees, but a lot of added resources. The HealthSherpa Consumer Advocate Team bring their expert training to help you navigate the Marketplace. Using their expertise, they can help you compare available plans. Then together, you can pick the perfect plan for you and your family. They can also enroll you in the health plan you select, or further talk you through the online application. You can contact the HealthSherpa Consumer Advocate Team at (872) 228-2549. 

If you wish to begin or complete the application online yourself, you may do so directly online. Again, you may do so at HealthCare.gov, or HealthSherpa, a designated government partner. You’ll enter your zip code and some basic biographical information (such as your age, gender identity, number of people in your household needing coverage, and annual household income) and then you’ll be shown plans available to you and their monthly premium costs. You’ll also see any savings you qualify for based on the information you gave. 

Don’t forget that your must pay your first premium to make sure your coverage will begin, and that you’ll pay that premium directly to the insurance company of the plan you select. 

Other options

If you’re unable to complete the application for Obamacare online, you can also complete the application by phone, in person, or via mail. You can contact the HealthSherpa Consumer Advocate Team at (872) 228-2549 if you’d like to enroll by phone. You can also shop the Health Insurance Marketplace and see if you're eligible for a subsidy or tax credit here.

All ACA health insurance plans cover certain federally mandated health benefits, including emergency care, mental health coverage, and preexisting conditions.