DALLAS (WBAP/KLIF News) – The clock is winding down for uninsured Americans to sign up for health coverage under the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare.
Tuesday, December 15th, is the last day to enroll for 2021 coverage.
Those who miss today’s deadline who qualify can apply during a Special Enrollment Period at HealthCare.gov.
Anyone with a certain life event including losing health coverage, moving, getting married, giving birth or adoption may qualify.
According to HealthCare.gov, applicants under the special enrollment period may have 60 days before or 60 days after to enroll in a plan.
Those who miss the Special Enrollment Period window will have to wait until the next open enrollment period to apply.
Under the ACA, there are more than 70 plans available to Americans based on demographics like age, income and location.
Numerous states, including Texas, say ACA enrollment has increased amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to massive job loss and subsequent job-based health care coverage.
Texas leads the nation in the most uninsured residents in the country. According to the State Comptroller’s Office, about 18.4% of Texans are not covered.
In November, the Supreme Court heard a challenge to the ACA, brought by Texas and a few other states, arguing its constitutionality.
The hearing focused on the individual mandate, which requires people to have health insurance. Legal experts said a decision is months away.
Click here to enroll for coverage.
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