It’s been a bumpy road for the Affordable Care Act these last few months, but starting November 1, the marketplace is open for enrollment. As the fifth open enrollment season is upon us, we at CHIR have launched our updated and improved Navigator Resource Guide, made possible thanks to a grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

So What’s Changed?

In addition to a sleek new makeover, there are some new sections and functions in the updated Navigator Resource Guide:

• A “What’s New in 2018” section that includes critical information about the new policies for marketplace coverage in 2018 that affect this year’s open enrollment. Sample questions include:
  • My insurer says I owe past due premiums for coverage and won’t enroll me for new coverage until I pay them. Is this allowed?
  • I filed my tax return, but did not reconcile my premium tax credit using Form 8962. Will I be re-enrolled with premium tax credits?
  • I’m using a web-broker’s website to enroll into marketplace coverage, and the system is prompting me to enter my financial information, is this allowed?
  • I currently have a bronze-level marketplace plan, and am eligible for a special enrollment period. Can I change into a silver-level plan?
• A “More Tools for Consumers” section that provides additional resources for open enrollment and post-enrollment questions.
• A Browse by Topic function by the four main sections.
• The ability to email or post on social media platforms individual FAQs.

What’s the Same?

Although the Navigator Resource Guide looks different, it still contains important updated information to help marketplace navigators and others assisting consumers:

• Over 300 frequently asked questions (FAQs) on topics such as eligibility for marketplace coverage, premium tax credits, reduced cost-sharing plans, and the individual mandate, as well as topics focused on small and large employer-sponsored coverage.
• Thresholds for 2018 related to financial assistance eligibility, exemptions, and a table of federal poverty levels.
• An easy-to-use search function to find FAQs and background information.

Similar to previous years, we will be continuing to update the Guide as needed to ensure consumers and assisters have the most up-to-date information.