The American Rescue Plan Act (the latest COVID-19 relief package) is making health insurance more affordable. Depending on your income, you could pay as little as $0/month for a quality health plan.
Here is what you need to know:
- There is a one-time COVID-19 Enrollment Period now through August 15.
- Increased tax credits are now available. This helps lower monthly premium payments for Americans who buy their own health insurance.
- If you were also eligible for unemployment at any time in 2021, you could qualify for $0 health insurance, along with lower deductibles and copayments.
See If You Qualify for an Increased Tax Credit
Use Pennie’s online calculator to see if you qualify for a tax credit. If you are eligible, here’s what you can do:
If You Enrolled in a 2021 Health Plan Directly With Independence Blue Cross
While you may not have qualified for a tax credit in the past, you might be eligible now. If you are eligible and you want to use your tax credit, you’ll need to enroll in a new health plan through Pennie. You can enroll at pennie.com or by calling us directly at 844-891-0700 (TTY: 711).
If you enroll in a new health plan through Pennie, we will automatically cancel your current health plan with Independence Blue Cross once your new health plan is active.
If You Enrolled in a 2021 Health Plan Through Pennie and Currently Have a Tax Credit
Pennie will automatically re-determine tax credits for members who applied through Pennie and completed a financial assistance application (FAA). If you want to keep your current health plan, completed the FAA on Pennie, and already have a tax credit for your 2021 health plan, you don’t need to do anything. The increased tax credit will be automatically applied to your monthly premium bill in the next few months.
If you would like to use your increased tax credit to select a different Independence Blue Cross health plan or if you are not sure if you already have a tax credit, you will need to take action by August 15. To speak with a licensed agent, call 844-891-0700 (TTY: 711).
If You Enrolled in a 2021 Health Plan Through Pennie but Do Not Currently Have a Tax Credit
You must update your Pennie application to ensure that the tax credits are applied to your monthly premium bill. To update your Pennie application with your most up-to-date income information:
- Log into your Pennie.
- Click My Applications.
- Click Edit Application to report a change.
If you would like to use your new tax credit to select a different Independence Blue Cross health plan, you will need to take action by August 15. To speak with a licensed agent, call 844-891-0700 (TTY: 711).
If You Are Not Currently Enrolled in Any Health Plan
You can enroll in an Independence Blue Cross health plan through Pennie. Get started at pennie.com or call us directly at 844-891-0700 (TTY: 711).
Keep Your Deductible in Mind
If you enroll in a new health plan during this one-time COVID-19 Enrollment Period, there is something important you should keep in mind. Any contributions you have made to your deductible, out-of-pocket maximum, or benefits accumulators may be reset with your new health plan through Pennie. If you’ve already made significant payments this plan year, then changing plans may not be the best option for you.
Why Choose Independence Blue Cross?
When you’re comparing health plans, remember that the cost of health insurance is more than just your monthly premium.
Independence Blue Cross has served the Philadelphia region for more than 80 years. We offer a wide variety of quality health plans to meet your health needs and budget.
Independence Blue Cross offers:
- Health plan options with no deductible
- The largest network of doctors and hospitals
- Free virtual care, with 24/7 access to a board-certified doctor or behavioral health care professional by phone or video chat
Plus, our members have access to exclusive perks. Those include discounts, reimbursements, and personal support.
We Are Here to Help
Do you have questions about the COVID-19 Enrollment Period? Want help enrolling? Call 844-891-0700 (TTY: 711) to speak with a licensed insurance agent, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Remember, you only have until August 15 to take advantage of new lower premiums. Don’t wait!
You may be eligible to apply for an affordable health plan today.
Get Medicare plans from Independence.
