Open enrollment for 2024 health insurance has begun

PAYETTE COUNTY – Open Enrollment for health insurance in Idaho began Oct. 15. Idahoans can enroll in 2024 medical and dental coverage through Your Health Idaho, the state's health insurance marketplace. Enrolling is as easy as ever, with applying for a tax credit and health insurance on the same application. Within minutes, Idahoans will know the amount of tax credit they qualify for to cover some or all of their monthly health insurance premiums.

With rates for health insurance decreasing for 2024, Idahoans are encouraged to make sure they are taking full advantage of all the cost savings available to them, making coverage even more affordable. Over 88 percent of current enrollees receive a tax credit, and one in four pay $0 for their monthly premium. Many Idahoans also qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions, which are only available on Silver plans. These extra savings help lower the cost of things like co-pays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximum; it's worth taking the time to compare the different plan levels and options.

"While prices for almost everything seem to be trending up, Idahoans will see decreases in health insurance in 2024. We hope all Idahoans who need coverage but don't think they can afford it will take a moment to see what Your Health Idaho has to offer; they'll be surprised at just how affordable health insurance can be," said Pat Kelly, Your Health Idaho Executive Director.

All 12 insurance carriers will continue to offer plans through Your Health Idaho but with more choices: 154 medical and 21 dental plans are available. Every county has at least four carriers to choose from; most have six to eight.

"We are excited about the number of plans offered through Your Health Idaho for 2024, giving Idahoans more choices to find the coverage that fits their lifestyle," said Kelly. "Idahoans new to Your Health Idaho will know within minutes of submitting their application the amount of tax credit they qualify for and can then shop for a plan."

Open Enrollment only happens once a year, from Oct. 15 to Dec. 15. Idahoans currently enrolled through Your Health Idaho are automatically renewed for 2024. Those who do not enroll by Dec. 15 will have to wait to enroll until next October unless they have a major life event like getting married, having a baby, or moving. Anyone who has not previously qualified for a tax credit can check again to find out if they are eligible.

For Idahoans who are unsure about how to enroll or determine if they qualify for a tax credit, Your Health Idaho recommends working with a certified agent or broker, many of whom are bi-lingual. These are local experts whose help is available at no cost. To find a certified agent or broker near you, visit YourHealthIdaho.org/find-help.

Now is also when Idahoans with unaffordable employer-sponsored coverage can enroll through Your Health Idaho. Certified agents can assist in determining if the cost of current employer-sponsored coverage is considered unaffordable. They can walk Idahoans through the process and answer questions.

Idahoans who want health insurance for the upcoming year must pick their plan by midnight on Dec. 15, 2023. Your Health Idaho is urging Idahoans not to wait until the last minute to apply. Coverage for plans selected during Open Enrollment begins Jan. 1, 2024.