N.H. Insurance Dept. Issues Bulletin Regarding Open Enrollment in the Individual Market On-Exchange and Off-Exchange

CONCORD, New Hampshire, Oct. 21 -- The New Hampshire Department of Insurance issued the following news release:

On September 17, 2021, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that the open enrollment period on the federal exchange will be extended by 30 days and will run from November 1, 2021 through January 15, 2022.

This bulletin serves to clarify that health insurers selling off-exchange plans in the individual market must allow individuals to purchase health insurance coverage during the annual open enrollment period specified for the federal exchange.

Federal regulations set the minimum requirements for open enrollment periods. Insurers may exceed the federal open enrollment period, but must allow enrollment between November 1 and January 15.

"While this bulletin clarifies federal law that the opportunity to access on-and-off individual market plans must be equal in length, we strongly encourage Granite Staters to shop around during the open enrollment period for the health plan that best meets their needs," said Insurance Commissioner Christopher Nicolopoulos.

"The NHID reminds consumers that shopping on a government-run exchange isn't the only option when choosing a health care plan for yourself and your family," said Deputy Commissioner D.J. Bettencourt. "In fact, including off-exchange plans in your selection process this open enrollment period might provide greater choice and open the door to a better health insurance plan for you and your family."

The complete bulletin, Docket Number INS 21-097-AB, is located at: https://www.nh.gov/insurance/media/bulletins/2021/documents/20211018-ins-21-097-ab.pdf. www.nh.gov/insurance.