November 1, 2017
BOISE, Idaho – Beginning November 1, Idahoans can purchase health and dental insurance for 2018 on the Idaho health insurance exchange, Your Health Idaho. The exchange is the only place in the state where individuals can purchase health insurance and receive a tax credit to help offset the costs of their monthly premium.
“There are differences this year that Idahoans should be aware of,” said Pat Kelly, Your Health Idaho Executive Director. “First, the enrollment period is shortened this year,” Kelly said. Open Enrollment for 2018 coverage runs from November 1 to December 15.
“Second, the plans and prices that you see on YourHealthIdaho.org reflect the recent decision regarding funding for cost-share reductions (CSRs). While that funding has stopped, the CSR benefits remain,” Kelly said. These benefits include reduced costs for deductibles, office visits, and prescription medication.
There are also more plans being offered this year than ever before. Idahoans have 299 plans available to them from seven different insurance carriers.
“What is more important than these changes is what has remained the same. Idahoans still have a robust choice of plans and the ability to get significant relief from rising premiums through the use of a tax credit, which keeps pace with premiums. For example, in 2018, the average monthly health insurance premium for a 35-year-old receiving a tax credit will increase by just $1 a month if they are enrolled in the second lowest cost silver plan.”
Your Health Idaho provides hundreds of certified agents and brokers to help Idahoans find the right plan to fit within their budget. It is free for Idahoans to work with an agent or broker. To find an agent or broker near you, visit YourHealthIdaho.org and click “Find Help Near You.”
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Your Health Idaho was established by state law in 2013 to provide an online marketplace where Idaho families and small businesses can go to compare and purchase health insurance. Your Health Idaho is governed by a 19-member Board authorized by the Idaho Legislature to set the rules and regulations for implementing a state-based health insurance exchange. For more information, please visit www.yourhealthidaho.org. You can also check us out on Facebook or on Twitter.