Laid Off, Can I Get ObamaCare?
I’ve just been laid off from my employment of 15 years, and my severance package will expire in March 2015. How do I find out if I qualify for Obamacare coverage for my children and myself?
I am also going through a divorce process – however my spouse does not provide any coverage for us. What is the minimum required insurance coverage(s) that I will need to obtain – medical, dental, vision, life, child life, etc…?
Lastly, what is the timeframe of which I must obtain this coverage by, in order to remain compliant with federal (and state, if applicable) regulations?
Answer
If you have been laid off you can get coverage during Open Enrollment or you can enroll during Special Enrollment when your employer plan ends.
It works like this, if you are laid off and lose employer health coverage you qualify for special enrollment through the marketplace for 60 days after you lose employer coverage. Further, even if you miss the 60 day window everyone qualifies during open enrollment each year (Nov 1 - Dec 15 each year).
Given the above, your first step should be going to HealthCare.gov ASAP to prevent a gap in coverage and to ensure you are within the 60 day window.
Don't forget, you may qualify for cost assistance based on your projected income for the current year, so make sure to account for your income so far this year and the lack of income from unemployment to get a reasonable estimate of your projected income for this year.
FACT: During both open and special enrollment periods all coverage options on the marketplace will count as Minimum Essential Coverage. That means that coverage will provide all the benefits, rights, and protections of the Affordable Care Act (ObamaCare).
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I have been laid off and we can’t afford insurance through my husbands company to cover me.
You should look into exemptions for affordability on employer so you can use the Marketplace.