Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace open enrollment begins
Free Press staff report | 11/7/2024, 6 p.m.
Open enrollment on Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace began Friday, Nov. 1, offering Virginians the opportunity to enroll in new health insurance plans or make changes to existing ones without a qualifying life event.
During the open enrollment period, free application assistance is available through the Enroll Virginia Program, which provides year-round support.
The Marketplace, accessible online at marketplace.virginia.gov, allows consumers to compare plans, enroll in coverage and find local assistance.
Financial help is available to most applicants, with nearly 9 out of 10 customers qualifying for savings on plan costs. Every Marketplace plan covers essential health benefits including preventive care, hospitalization and prescription drugs.
“We encourage shoppers to review their plans every year instead of letting their coverage renew automatically,” said Deepak Madala, director of Enroll Virginia. “Plan details and prices change from year to year, so a different option might be better for you in 2025.”
Since Virginia resumed Medicaid renewals last year, the state Medicaid agency has reported over 500,000 Virginians losing Medicaid coverage since March 2023. Individuals who no longer qualify for Medicaid can find low-cost coverage options on the Marketplace.
“The most important thing is to act fast when you lose your health coverage,” Madala said. “That way, you’re less likely to miss important deadlines and experience a gap in your coverage. If you lose your Medicaid, a navigator can help you reapply or transition to a new low-cost plan.”
Enroll Virginia, a nonpartisan initiative of the Virginia Poverty Law Center, offers free, unbiased guidance on health coverage options through Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace, Medicaid and Family
Access to Medical Insurance Security plan. Virginians can reach Enroll Virginia’s staff for help at 1-888-392-5132 or schedule in-person or virtual appointments at enrollva.org/get-help.
For further assistance, visit marketplace.virginia.gov or contact the consumer assistance center at 1-888-687-1501 (TTY: 711).