Key Dates

It’s important to remember that after open enrollment ends on February 15, 2015, you will not be able to get health coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace until the next annual enrollment period begins on November 15, 2015 for 2016.

Enrollment for Medicaid and CHIP can occur at any time of the year.

Help Center

  FAQ for Individuals and Families

What if I already have insurance through my job?
If you have employer-based health insurance you like, you can keep it. You are considered covered. You may be able to change to Marketplace coverage if you want to. .: More

What if I'm self-employed?
If you are self-employed with no employees, you are not considered an employer. You can use the Marketplace to find coverage that fits your needs. .: More

What if I have a pre-existing health condition?
Starting in 2014, most health insurance plans can't refuse to cover you or charge you more just because you have a pre-existing health condition. .: More

What are my health coverage options if I’m unemployed?
If you are unemployed you may qualify for Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, or lower costs on Marketplace insurance based on your income. .: More

What if I’m a part-time employee without health coverage?
If you are a part-time worker without employer-based coverage, you may be able to buy health insurance in the Marketplace and get lower costs based on your income. .: More

What if I'm losing employer-based insurance?
If you lose your employer-based health insurance, you have two primary options for health insurance coverage: a Marketplace plan or COBRA continuation coverage. .: More

Can I keep my own doctor?
Just like with any insurance change, Depending on the plan you choose in the Marketplace, you may be able to keep your current doctor. .: More

Back to top  | Source: HealthCare.gov

  FAQ for Small Businesses

What do small businesses need to know?
In 2015, businesses with fewer than 50 full-time equivalent employees can use the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) to offer coverage to their employees, if you choose to do so. There is no requirement to do so.  This applies to non-profit organizations as well. You control the coverage you offer and how much you pay toward premium costs. .: More

What is considered a small business?
If you have fewer than 50 full-time equivalent (FTE) employees you are considered a small business under the health care law. .: More

Do I have to offer health coverage to my employees?
No employer has to offer coverage. Some large businesses (with 50 or more employees in 2015) that don't offer coverage meeting certain standards may have to make a shared responsibility payment in 2015. .: More

How do I choose coverage that’s right for my business?
There are four categories of plans in the SHOP Marketplace. They offer similar benefits, but differ based on the level of employer contribution. .: More

When can I purchase health insurance through the SHOP Marketplace?
The SHOP Marketplace will be launched on November 1. .: More

Will I qualify for small business health care tax credits?
You may qualify for employer health care tax credits if you have fewer than 25 full-time equivalent employees making an average of about $50,000 a year or less. .: More

Back to top  |  Source: HealthCare.gov

  FAQ for VETERANS

What if I already have health coverage through the VA?
If you are enrolled in the VA health care system, you don’t need to do anything more. The health care law does not change your VA benefits or out-of-pocket costs. .: More

What if I am not enrolled in VA health care?
If you are not enrolled in VA health care and are eligible, you can apply at any time to have VA coverage that meets the standards of the health care law. The health care law does not change VA benefits or out-of-pocket costs. .: More

What about my family members?

VA offers health care benefits for certain family members of Veterans through programs such as the Civilian Health and Medical Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs (CHAMPVA) and the Spina Bifida program.  Family members who are not enrolled in a VA health care program should use the Marketplace to get coverage. .: More

Starting in 2014, most health insurance plans can't refuse to cover you or charge you more just because you have a pre-existing health condition. .: More

Back to top  | Source: VA.gov

  FAQ for SENIORS

If I have Medicare, do I need to enter the marketplace?
If you have Medicare, you are considered covered!  Medicare isn’t part of the Health Insurance Marketplace, so you don’t need to do anything.. .: More

Will my benefits change?
The Marketplace won’t affect your Medicare choices, and your benefits won’t be changing. No matter how you get Medicare, whether through Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan, you’ll still have the same benefits and security you have now.
 
You won’t have to make any changes. .: More

Note: The Marketplace does not offer Medicare supplement (Medigap) insurance or Part D drug plans. For information on these programs, visit Medicare.gov.

What if I am a senior and someone insists that I need to buy 'Obamacare'?
Scammers are using confusion about the Affordable Care Act to scam seniors into paying for coverage thaty you don't need.  They may try to sell fake federal insurance cards.  If you have Medicare, you are considered covered and do not need to do anything.  If you suspect that someone is trying to scayou or commit fraud, call the Montana Insurance Commissioner at 1-800 322-6148 or the Senior Medicare Patrol at 800-511-3191.

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  How does the Health Insurance Marketplace work?

• You apply for health insurance online at the Health Insurance Marketplace or call 1-800-318-2595.
• You compare the plans and choose the one that’s right for you.
• Multiple insurance companies will compete for your business by presenting you with different quotes for your chosen plan.
• You tailor a plan to suit your specific needs.
• If you feel you are the victim of fraud, contact the Montana Insurance Commisioner at 1-800-332-6148.

Back to top  | Source: HealthCare.gov