Beginning October 1st, under the Affordable Care Act,  you may be eligible to shop for new and affordable Quality Health Care Plans through New York State’s Marketplace.  You may qualify for a tax credit subsidy, cost-sharing reductions, or even other health coverage programs such as Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).  No one will be denied health insurance on the basis of a pre-existing condition. 

Open enrollment is from October 1, 2013 – March 31st 2014 for coverage beginning January 1st, 2014.  If you are uninsured after the open enrollment period ends, you will be charged a penalty starting at $95 per adult, $46.50 per child, $285 per family or 1% of income whichever is greater.

West Hurley Library can put you in contact with people who are trained and certified as Navigators. Navigators can guide you though the application and enrollment process, help you find the right plan based on your individual needs, help you figure out what cost reducing benefits you may be able to receive and can answer any questions free of charge.
For a schedule of navigator site locations, visit this webpage

Support is available online, in person and by phone.  To learn more visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov  or e-mail exchange@health.state.ny.us.