The new Expanded Access Special Enrollment Period allows qualifying consumers with an annual household income of up to 200% of the federal poverty level to enroll in a health plan throughout the year.

New Jersey’s Governor Phil Murphy and Department of Banking and Insurance Commissioner Marlene Caride have introduced a new “Expanded Access” initiative, which allows residents at certain income levels to continue to enroll in free or nearly free health coverage through Get Covered New Jersey.    

The new Expanded Access Special Enrollment Period allows qualifying consumers with an annual household income of up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to enroll in a health plan throughout the year. This population will have access to plans with low or no monthly premium, because of the increased financial support available.

The income for the Expanded Access SEP is based on the 2021 FPL guidelines at this time (i.e., $25,760 for an individual and $53,000 for a family of four), according to Get Covered New Jersey sources. Any further updates will be shared once they are available.

Prior to this initiative, Open Enrollment typically occurs for residents without health insurance through an employer, or other program such as Medicaid or Medicare once a year, from November 1 to January 31. Additionally, there is a Special Open Enrollment for qualifying life events that includes but is not limited to pregnancy, marriage, the loss of health coverage, moving and a birth or adoption of a child.  

To visit the press release from the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance, click HERE. Any questions regarding this notice please contact your health insurance specialists at Total Benefit Solutions, Inc at (800)924-6718