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Health Insurance Marketplace Enrollment Deadline is Monday, Last Group Enrollment Session Was Saturday

By Jesse Wood

March 26, 2014. Consumers have until Monday to get 2014 coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace, where open enrollment ends on March 31. For those without insurance for three months or longer in 2014 may receive a tax penalty because of stipulations in the Affordable Care Act, also known as ObamaCare.

For the past few weeks, High Country Community Health has been making a final push to assist as many citizens as possible before the enrollment deadline, according to Eric Schneider, an outreach and eligibility specialist, otherwise known as a marketplace navigator, with the clinic that serves Watauga and Avery counties.

ObamacareEarlier in the month, High Country Community Health held “unconventional hours” and the Morganton office of Legal Aid of NC joined the local navigators in assisting the public. Also a number of enrollment group sessions have been held at the Watauga County Public Library to assist those trying to enroll in the marketplace.

To schedule an appointment in the final days with Schneider, contact him at 828-773-7297 or email him at erichcch@gmail.com. Be sure to have projected income information, tax information and social security number.

Schneider mentioned that even if people think they may not qualify, they should still schedule an appointment or drop-in during the noted days above to have a “deeper look” with certified enrollment specialists. He also said that people who are already insured could save “a lot of money” by enrolling in the marketplace and taking advantage of federal subsidies. And if you don’t qualify, Schneider said staff can help folks find the appropriate forms that may assist them in avoiding a tax penalty. 

To enroll independently, click to www.healthcare.gov

Below are HealthCare.gov tips on enrolling:

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