Mandatory health care coverage will be fresh on many people’s minds next week at the polls because open enrollment begins Tuesday, Nov. 1.
Here are three things you need to know if you plan to buy health insurance through the state website:
- Head to Maryland Health Connection to calculate your eligibility, review plan options and purchase a plan.
- In order to have coverage on Jan. 1, you must pick your plan and finish enrolling by Dec. 15
- The very last day to enroll for coverage in 2017 is Jan. 31
You don't need to buy insurance through the state exchange if you're covered through your employer.
Monthly premiums for Marylanders will be higher this year. Depending on your plan, you'll be paying between 20 and 37 percent more each month. Some of that cost may be covered by government subsidies, but not everyone qualifies for those.
Under the president's health care law, if you don't have health insurance you'll be forced to pay a penalty of at least $700 per person.
