MNsure CEO urges enrollees to use tax credits

Dec. 14--MANKATO -- MNsure's CEO made another stop in Mankato Wednesday to stress the importance of tax credits for those signing up for individual health insurance this month.

Allison O'Toole's visit to Open Door Health Center, which offers navigators to help people sign up for insurance through MNsure, came a day before the Dec. 15 deadline for enrollees who need to be covered come Jan. 1. The next deadline for 2017 coverage will be Jan. 31.

Despite having more people sign up for insurance through the state's exchange compared to last year, O'Toole said still not enough Minnesotans are taking advantage of tax credits meant to offset costly premium hikes.

"That's real money that can make a difference," she said of the credits.

The credits are available to individuals earning up to $47,520, or families of four earning up to $97,200 per year. O'Toole said average tax credits for enrollees in Blue Earth County and some neighboring counties are well above the state average.

Average monthly tax credits for those eligible in Blue Earth County can add up to $782, according to numbers provided by MNsure. The state average savings are $637.

Le Sueur's average tax credit amount is even higher at $867. Nicollet and Waseca's average monthly tax credits for 2017 are $802 and $839, respectively.

Premium hikes have been a continued focus of politicians on both sides of the aisle in recent months, although a proposed special session to address the problem remains elusive.

O'Toole said she welcomes anything legislators can do.

"I'm encouraged by recent news, but again it's my job to maintain my focus on this deadline tomorrow and getting as many people enrolled right now as possible," she said.

Karla Esqueda at Open Door is one of the local navigators who help people sign up for insurance through MNsure. She said it's been a busy sign-up season.

"I'd say I've seen the highest number this year compared to past enrollment seasons," she said.

She also gave examples of area families that will be greatly helped by the tax credits. One self-employed couple she signed for insurance had their premiums cut down from $12,000 last year to $4,000 this year.

O'Toole said MNsure is the only place enrollees can receive savings like that. She likened MNsure's comparison tool to Kayak or Orbitz, which compiles airfare prices.

"They don't set airfare rates, but they're a convenient place to shop for them," she said. "And MNsure plays a similar role in health insurance."

Follow Brian Arola @BrianArolaMFP.

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