Confused about what to do about your health insurance?

the changes this year, are you still confused about what you need?

Everyone has to have insurance or pay a penalty. Individuals will be able to buy their insurance from the private market or Covered California without regard to pre-existing conditions during the open enrollment period ending March 31, 2014. Individuals will also be able to purchase insurance if they lose their coverage through loss of a job or other qualifying event. For example, if their policy is terminated on their first policy anniversary in 2014, they can move to individual plans without regard to pre-existing conditions.

Individuals with incomes below 400 percent of the Federal Poverty level will qualify for a tax subsidy to lower the cost of their insurance premium to an affordable level. In order to receive this tax subsidy, health insurance must be purchased through Covered California, the state-sponsored insurance exchange.

Small groups from 2 to 50 may also qualify for a tax credit and if they do, they will need to purchase their health insurance through the SHOP portion of Covered California. The vast majority of small groups will continue to purchase their insurance through the private market. Plan designs have changed radically, however, so members may need assistance to find the best plan for their practice.

We can help eliminate the confusion by working with you to find the coverage that fits your situation. Whether we help you place your individual or small group health insurance through the private market or through the Covered California exchange, call a Mercer client advisor today at 800-775-2020 or emailCOA.Insurance.service@mercer.com.

66538 (2/14) Copyright 2014 Mercer LLC. All rights reserved.

Mercer Health & Benefits Insurance Services LLC • CA Ins. Lic. #0G39709

777 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90017 • 800-775-2020

COA.Insurance.service@mercer.com • www.COAMemberInsurance.com

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