For reprint by the GWAAR Legal Services Team
In response to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, the Department of Health and Human Services recently announced a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for 2021 Marketplace coverage. This SEP will run from February 15, 2021 through May 15, 2021.
During the SEP, individuals may apply for new coverage or update an existing application. There are several ways to apply for Marketplace coverage:
• Online at www.healthcare.gov,
• By phone at 1-800-318-2596,
• With in-person help from local enrollment assisters
or insurance agents or brokers (you can search for
local help here: www.localhelp.healthcare.gov), or
• With a paper application, available at:
www.marketplace.cms.gov/applications-and-forms
For people who apply using this SEP, coverage will begin the first day of the month following the date they select a plan.
Please note that Marketplace plans are not for people who have job-based health insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, or VA coverage. If you already have this type of coverage or are eligible for it, you will not be eligible for premium tax credits. In addition, if you have Medicare, it is illegal for an insurance company to sell you a Marketplace plan. Medicare and the Marketplace are two completely different programs.
Is the Property Tax Deferral Loan Program right for you?
The Wisconsin Property Tax Deferral Loan Program can help people who may be having difficulties paying property taxes. Individuals over the age 65 who own their own home may be eligible to apply for a WHEDA (Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority) loan of up to $3,525 to pay 2020 property taxes due in 2021. Loan principal and interest does not have to be repaid until the property owner moves or transfers ownership of the property. This is a low interest loan with a rate of 4.25% in 2021 which is fixed for the life of the loan. Co-owners of the property must be at least age 60 or be permanently disabled. Total household income for 2020 cannot exceed $20,000. Please call ADRC at (920) 448-4300 or WHEDA at 1-800-755-7835 to learn more or for a copy of the application. Interested homeowners should act soon as the deadline is June 30th, 2021.
