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HENRICO, V.A. — U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger today is encouraging Central Virginia individuals and families to review their existing coverage or sign up for health insurance to save on healthcare premiums before the special enrollment period deadline.

Earlier this year, the Biden Administration launched a special enrollment period through May 15, 2021. Following the American Rescue Plan being signed into law, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Beccera extended the special enrollment period deadline to August 15, so Americans could take advantage of lower costs.

Until August 15, Virginians can visit healthcare.gov to review their options, change their provider, or sign up for health insurance in response to COVID-19. Coverage begins on the first day of the month following enrollment.

“Whether Central Virginians are reviewing their existing coverage or signing up for health insurance for the first time, these savings could make a real, tangible difference for themselves and their families,” said Spanberger. “Marketplace health coverage is more affordable than ever. With less than a week left in the special enrollment period, I hope many Central Virginians will take time to review their options to see their own potential savings. This extended enrollment period — and lower premiums provided by the American Rescue Plan — present a great opportunity for families across the Seventh District to get both the affordable coverage they need and the peace of mind that health insurance offers.”

In March 2021, Spanberger voted to pass the American Rescue Plan, which enhanced tax credits for health insurance marketplace coverage and significantly lowered healthcare premiums for millions of Americans. In Virginia, the average premium on the exchange has dropped from $142 to $82 per month — for an average annual savings of $720.

And in March 2020, Spanberger called on the Trump Administration to open a special enrollment period for individual signups due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and the need to provide affordable health coverage to those who might be at risk of contracting the disease. In a letter sent to then-HHS Secretary Alex Azar, Spanberger urged HHS to establish a special enrollment period for patients seeking health insurance marketplace coverage as the COVID-19 pandemic rapidly threatened public health.

To review coverage options or take the first step to apply for new healthcare coverage, Central Virginians can click here.

 

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