At Howl!, we want our community of artists, playwrights and actors to have a safety net of professionals to help with housing and insurance needs. Howl! Happening wants to make sure that you (our beautiful and talented downtown folks) always have access to professionals. There is no one better to listen to your concerns about health insurance and affordable housing than The Actors Fund. Day in and day out, The Actors Fund works to ensure that the creative types that built NYC’s creative capital are taken care of. Its not housing and health insurance, there are other types you should take into consideration such as vehicle insurance. There are many companies that offer insurance no matter what you’re after, say if its cover for your van you can always find a better deal on Moneyexpert.com (in the UK). But carry on reading below for more information on your housing and health insurance.
Each month, the Howl! Blog will feature news from The Actors Fund about deadlines and opportunities within insurance and housing markets. Read about open enrollment for health insurance below, and stay tuned for more information from the experts at The Actors Fund!
Open Enrollment for Health Insurance
What is Open Enrollment?
Open Enrollment runs from November 1, 2016 to January 31, 2017. During this time, everyone who is not enrolled in an employer- or union-based plan should review their coverage options. It is the only time during the year when you can enroll in coverage or switch plans (a few exceptions apply).
Am I eligible for free coverage?
Many people still mistakenly think they are not eligible for free coverage. In the tri-state area, if your income is below $16,394 (single), you are eligible for free, comprehensive insurance through Medicaid. If your income is above the Medicaid limit but below $23,540 (single), you are eligible for the Essential Plan (NY only), which offers comprehensive coverage with no deductibles for $20/month. If you don’t qualify for those programs you may still be eligible to receive subsidies to help lower the cost of your insurance if your income is below $47,080 (single).
I like what I have. Why should I review my coverage?
Plans make changes to their provider networks, copays, co-insurance and drug coverage every year. For example, the insurance company Oscar plans to significantly reduce the size of their network in 2017. So check to make sure that any providers (including hospitals) that you use are still in your network, and that the drugs you need are still covered under what’s called a ‘formulary.’ If you receive a letter from your Marketplace/Exchange, such as New York State of Health, open it. Following on from this, if you do decide to switch health insurance no waiting period policies are likely to be in your best interest as these types of policies ensure that you can get the health insurance coverage you need as soon as possible.
My income will be a lot higher/lower than last year. What should I do?
The Marketplace/Exchange is designed to allow your premiums to fluctuate with your income. If you think your income will go up or down significantly in 2017, and you have coverage through the Marketplace/Exchange, it’s a good idea to re-estimate your income to see if you are either paying too much, or possibly not enough for your insurance coverage. You may be eligible for free or lower-cost coverage.
I’m having a hard time figuring out my health insurance options and enrolling. Is there someone who can help?
Call the Artists Health Insurance Resource Center, a program of The Actors Fund, at 917-281-5975. They have certified Navigators who can help you complete the New York State of Health application and pick a plan that works for you. They also have free workshops twice a week during Open Enrollment.
For more information, visit: http://www.actorsfund.org/services-and-programs/every-artist-insured-open-enrollment-2016-2017
