Affordable Health Insurance Options After Open Enrollment
Missed the open enrollment deadline? Don’t worry! Affordable health insurance options are still available to you. This guide will help you understand your choices and how to get covered even after the open enrollment period has ended.
Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
If you missed the open enrollment period, you might still qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) due to certain life events. These events include:
- Losing Job-Based Health Coverage
- Losing Medicaid or CHIP Coverage
- Getting Married or Divorced
- Having a Baby or Adopting a Child
- Moving to a New ZIP Code or County
- Turning 26 and Losing Coverage Under Your Parents’ Plan
If you qualify for an SEP, you usually have up to 60 days following the event to enroll in a plan. Visit Healthcare.gov to see if you qualify and to apply for coverage.
Medicaid and CHIP
If your income is low, you might be eligible for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). These programs provide free or low-cost health coverage to millions of Americans, including some low-income adults, families and children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities. You can apply for Medicaid or CHIP at any time of the year.
Short-Term Health Plans
Short-term health plans are another option if you need temporary coverage. These plans are designed to provide coverage for a limited period, usually up to 12 months. While they may not cover all the benefits of a standard health insurance plan, they can be a good option if you need immediate coverage.
Community Health Centers
Community health centers – like Aunt Martha’s – offer low-cost or sliding-scale fee services to individuals without health insurance. These centers provide a range of services, including primary care, dental care, and mental health services. Find a community health center near you by visiting the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) website.
Even if you missed the open enrollment period, there are still several options available to ensure you have health coverage. Explore these alternatives and choose the one that best fits your needs. Remember, having health insurance is crucial for protecting your health and financial well-being.
Yes, you can find affordable health insurance after open enrollment!
Don’t wait—find affordable health insurance or apply for Medicaid or CHIP. Aunt Martha’s Health and Wellness can help you with the process.
Call to talk to one of our Enrollment Assisters, or visit our Health Insurance Resources page to get started.
The ABCs of Health Insurance
Affordable Health Insurance on the Marketplace
Finding Affordable Health Insurance on the Marketplace can be tough, but don’t worry.
The Health Insurance Marketplace offers many options to help you get the coverage you need at a price you can afford.
Low-Cost Options are Available
The Health Insurance Marketplace helps everyone find affordable health insurance, regardless of income level. If you don’t have insurance through work or need a cheaper plan, the Marketplace has options for you.
Subsidies to Lower Costs:
- Premium Tax Credits: If your income is between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you can get help paying for your plan.
- Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs): If you qualify for a Silver plan and your income is between 100% and 250% of the FPL, you can get help with costs like deductibles and copayments.
Tip: Use the Marketplace’s subsidy calculator to see how much help you can get.
Free Health Insurance: Medicaid and CHIP
If you have a low income, you might qualify for Medicaid, which offers free or low-cost health coverage. CHIP is for families with children who don’t qualify for Medicaid but can’t afford private insurance.
Medicaid Eligibility:
- Low-income adults
- Pregnant women
- Children under 19
- Seniors
- People with disabilities
CHIP Eligibility:
- Children up to age 19 in families with too much income for Medicaid but not enough for private insurance
- Includes doctor visits, immunizations, prescriptions, and hospital care
Tip: You can apply for Medicaid and CHIP any time of the year.
Affordable Health Plans for Specific Groups
- Pregnant Women:
- Medicaid and CHIP can cover prenatal visits, labor, and delivery.
- Many Marketplace plans also cover maternity care.
- Tip: Apply for coverage as soon as possible if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
- Young Adults (Under 26):
- You can stay on your parent’s plan or get your own through the Marketplace.
- You may qualify for subsidies to lower your premiums.
- Tip: Apply during open enrollment to avoid gaps in coverage.
- Undocumented Immigrants:
- Not eligible for Marketplace plans or subsidies, but may qualify for Medicaid in some states.
- In Illinois, some undocumented individuals may get Medicaid, especially if pregnant or under 19.
- Tip: Check local resources for other state-funded programs.
How to Apply for Affordable or Free Health Plans
- Visit HealthCare.gov and create an account.
- Fill out the application with your household and income information.
- Compare plans to find the best fit.
- Apply for Medicaid or CHIP if you qualify.
Get Help with Your Enrollment
Don’t wait—find affordable health insurance or apply for Medicaid or CHIP. Aunt Martha’s Health and Wellness can help you with the process.
Call to talk to one of our Enrollment Assisters, or visit our Health Insurance Resources page to get started.
Remember, open enrollment runs until January 15, 2025.
The ABCs of Health Insurance
Confused about how to enroll in health insurance on the Marketplace? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Navigating the Health Insurance Marketplace can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. But fear not! We’re here to guide you through the process with simple steps and clear explanations.
Whether you’re a first-time enrollee or need to update your current plan, this guide will walk you through the entire process. From creating an account to selecting a plan, we’ll make sure you have the information you need to make informed decisions about your health coverage.
Step 1: Create Your Account
First, you need to create an account on the Health Insurance Marketplace website. This is where you’ll apply for coverage, compare plans, and get help.
How to Create Your Account:
- Go to HealthCare.gov.
- Click on “Create Account.”
- Enter your personal information.
After creating your account, you can start your application and use the tools to help you find a plan.
Tip: Write down your username and password. You’ll need them to log in and check your application, compare plans, and make updates.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application
Next, fill out your application. You’ll need to provide information about your household, income, and any current health coverage. This helps the Marketplace find the best plans and financial help for you.
What You Need to Provide:
- Personal Information: Your address, household size, and income details (like pay stubs or tax returns).
- Income Details: Report your income and anyone in your household who works. This helps determine if you qualify for financial help.
- Current Health Coverage: If you have health insurance (like from a job or Medicaid), provide those details.
Tip: Be honest about your income and household size. Incorrect information can delay your application or cause errors.
Step 3: Compare Plans
After filling out your application, you can see the health insurance plans available to you. The Marketplace offers plans in different levels called “metal tiers” (Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum). Each level has different costs and coverage.
About Plan Tiers:
- Bronze: Lowest monthly cost but higher out-of-pocket costs. Good if you don’t need much medical care.
- Silver: Moderate monthly cost and out-of-pocket costs. Good balance between cost and coverage.
- Gold: Higher monthly cost but lower out-of-pocket costs. Good if you need frequent medical care.
- Platinum: Highest monthly cost but lowest out-of-pocket costs. Best coverage for those who need a lot of medical services.
Tip: Think about your health needs when choosing a plan. If you’re healthy and don’t need many doctor visits, Bronze or Silver might be best. If you need more care, Gold or Platinum might be better.
Step 4: Apply for Financial Help
One big benefit of the Marketplace is financial help. Depending on your income and family size, you might get help to lower your monthly costs or qualify for Medicaid, which is free or low-cost health coverage.
To see if you qualify:
- The Marketplace will check if you can get help based on your income and household information.
- If your income is low, you might qualify for Medicaid.
Tip: Review all financial help options carefully. This can save you a lot of money.
Step 5: Final Steps & Confirmation
After picking a plan and applying for financial help, submit your application. You’ll get a confirmation with your coverage details, premium amount, and start date.
You should receive your confirmation within a few days, along with your first payment due date. Make sure to pay on time to start your coverage without delays.
Tip: Keep a record of your confirmation and first payment receipt. You might need them later.
Enrolling in a health insurance plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace is easy when you follow these steps. By using this guide, you can find a plan that fits your budget and get the care you need.
Remember: Open Enrollment ends on January 15, 2025. Don’t wait! Start today and get the health coverage you need. Let Aunt Martha’s help you get enrolled and stay covered.
The ABCs of Open Enrollment
Health Insurance Sign-Up
Important Dates on the Marketplace Open Enrollment Calendar
The Health Insurance Marketplace helps you find affordable health coverage. But you need to hurry! The sign-up time is short, so act fast to get your insurance for 2025.
Don’t go without coverage or financial help. Here are the key dates and tips to help you sign up.
When to Sign Up
The Open Enrollment period for 2025 starts on November 1, 2024, and ends on January 15, 2025. This is your only chance to get a health plan for the year unless you have a big life change.
If you miss this deadline, you might not have health coverage until next year. So, mark your calendar and sign up before January 15, 2025!
What If You Miss the Deadline?
If you miss signing up by January 15, 2025, you can’t get a plan until the next period in fall 2025. This means no coverage for a year.
But if you sign up before the deadline, you can avoid this problem. You might also qualify for a Special Enrollment if you have life changes like losing a job or moving.
Important Dates to Remember
- November 1, 2024: Sign-up starts.
- December 15, 2024: Last day to sign up for coverage starting January 1, 2025.
- January 15, 2025: Last day to sign up.
How to Get Ready
Here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Gather Documents: Have proof of income, Social Security numbers, and household info ready.
- Review Needs: Think about what coverage you need, like for prescriptions or mental health.
- Know Your Budget: Decide how much you can pay each month.
- Get Help: Aunt Martha’s Enrollment Assisters can walk you through the process.
Sign up by December 15th for coverage to start on January 1, 2025!
Need help? Call Aunt Martha’s.
Act today!
Don’t wait—sign up before January 15th to make sure you have health coverage. Aunt Martha’s can help you.
More ways Aunt Martha’s can help.
At Aunt Martha’s Health and Wellness, we want to help you get the healthcare you need. The Health Insurance Marketplace is a place where you can find and sign up for health insurance. It was created as part of the Affordable Care Act (also called Obamacare) to make healthcare more affordable for everyone.
The Marketplace is a website where you can compare different health insurance plans in your area. The plans cover things like doctor visits, preventive care, and emergencies. The Marketplace can also help you find out if you qualify for financial assistance to make your insurance more affordable.
If you don’t have health insurance through your job or another program, the Marketplace is a great way to find a plan that fits your needs and budget.
Our Enrollment Team is here to help
Benefits of Enrolling in a Marketplace Plan
- Preventive care like check-ups and vaccines are covered at no cost to you.
- Having insurance protects you from high medical bills if you get sick or hurt.
- You can have peace of mind knowing you are covered for your healthcare needs.
Many people think the Marketplace is too expensive or complicated, but that’s not always true. You may be able to get financial help to lower the cost of your plan. Medicaid or CHIP may also be available for free or low cost.
Who can benefit from the Health Insurance Marketplace?
The Marketplace is for a wide variety of people, including:
- Low-income individuals and families who may qualify for financial assistance.
- Young adults under 26 who need to find new coverage.
- Undocumented immigrants who can still access emergency care.
- Pregnant women who need maternity coverage.
- People who have lost their Medicaid coverage.
How to Enroll
Enrolling in the Marketplace is easy! Here’s what you need to do:
- Visit HealthCare.gov to start looking at plans in your area.
- Create an account on the Marketplace website.
- Fill out an application to see what plans and financial help you qualify for.
- Compare the available plans and choose the one that’s best for you.
- If you need help, call Aunt Martha’s Enrollment Team at (708) 747-7444 or check out our Health Insurance Resources to learn more.
Don’t wait! The deadline to enroll in 2024-2025 coverage is January 15, 2025. Find a plan that’s right for you and sign up today.
More ways Aunt Martha’s can help.
An Enduring Impact – A Tribute to our Friend
Nearly a week ago, our community lost a fierce advocate. Our friend and former colleague, Dan Strick, tragically passed away last Tuesday, January 30, 2024.
Dan joined Aunt Martha’s in the mid-1980s as a project coordinator in our Joliet office. Over the course of 15+ years, Dan’s role expanded significantly to include grant writing and community engagement and after establishing Aunt Martha’s presence in Kankakee working with runaway youth in our Comprehensive Community Based Youth Services (CCBYS) program, he took on high level leadership roles, including Business Manager and General Manager before leaving to pursue new opportunies in 2001.
For those who had the honor of knowing Dan personally, we knew him to be a truly genuine, caring individual – a person who took a sincere interest in those around him, encouraging them to see and ultimately achieve their true potential. I will personally be forever grateful to Dan for bringing me into the organization 31 years ago when he served as Business Manager. It goes without saying that Dan left an indelible mark on the organization and there is no doubt his efforts significantly contributed to our success over the years.
Illustrative of the generosity Dan displayed throughout his life, in lieu of flowers, his family has requested donations to Aunt Martha’s or Sertoma Star Services in his honor. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dan’s family and friends during this difficult time. Please join us in mourning the loss of a truly inspiring individual. May you rest in peace.
An obituary is available here.
Make a Donation in Dan’s Name
The Impact of Your Gift When you donate to Aunt […]In a groundbreaking initiative, Illinois has launched a Healing-Centered Task Force to address the impacts of childhood trauma. Raul Garza, representing Aunt Martha’s Health and Wellness, delivered an inspiring speech at the launch event, emphasizing the importance of trauma-informed care. In this blog post, we will delve into the key points of his remarks and discuss the significance of this task force in Illinois.
History of Aunt Martha’s Health and Wellness
Garza began by expressing gratitude for the invitation to share Aunt Martha’s story and highlighting the agency’s long commitment to serving children experiencing trauma. He traced the organization’s roots back 52 years when it started as a drop-in center in Park Forest. The drop-in center was created as a safe space for children who felt locked out or compelled to run away. Over the years, Aunt Martha’s services have expanded, reaching 35 locations statewide.
Evolving Care Models to Address Childhood Trauma
As medical and clinical understanding of childhood trauma evolved, so did Aunt Martha’s care models. Most notably, our Integrated Care Center, developed over several years and lauched in 2019, is the only medically-led child wellness program of its kind nationally. The center provides holistic and integrated care to the most acute children under the care of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. Garza stressed the need for a trauma-informed approach, showing how data from Aunt Martha’s indicates improved health outcomes for youth in their care. Acts of aggression, runaways, hospitalizations have reduced, and feedback from children and youth has been positive.
Connection Between Childhood Trauma and Health Conditions
Garza emphasized the connection between childhood trauma and various medical and mental health conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, depression, and inflammatory conditions. Through their expansive network of clinics across Illinois, Aunt Martha’s has witnessed a 54% remission rate for depression within 12 months. This remarkable outcome has garnered recognition as a national model.
Redesigning the Juvenile Detention System
Garza proudly shared Aunt Martha’s involvement in the redesign of the juvenile detention system, collaborating with the Cook County Department of Juvenile Probation and Chapin Hall, the research arm of the University of Chicago. The goal is to create a state-of-the-art program that emphasizes assessing juvenile offenders, identifying necessary resources, and strengthening the family unit. Garza raised a concerning statistic that highlights the unnecessary incarceration of 40% of youth and children in Cook County’s juvenile detention. Aunt Martha’s aims to alleviate this situation by working towards alternative placements and support systems.
The Impact of the Illinois Healing-Centered Task Force
Garza expressed confidence in the Illinois Healing-Centered Task Force Childhood Trauma’s ability to make a significant impact on the well-being of communities throughout Illinois. Aunt Martha’s is excited to play a meaningful role in this collaborative effort. By bringing together various stakeholders and experts, the task force aims to develop comprehensive strategies to address childhood trauma effectively.
With the launch of the task force, Illinois is taking a significant step towards addressing the long-lasting impacts of childhood trauma. By fostering collaboration and implementing evidence-based strategies, the Healing-Centered Task Force has the potential to create positive change throughout the state.
Learn More
MacKenzie Scott Surprises Aunt Martha’s with $9M Donation
We are thrilled to announce that we have received an incredibly generous, $9 million dollar donation from billionaire Mackenzie Scott.
This unexpected gift will allow us to expand our services and positively impact more lives in Illinois. For over 50 years, we’ve provided essential healthcare and resources. But there’s always more that can be done.
Ms. Scott’s generosity will help us scale our programs in impactful new ways. From medical care access to youth development, more families will receive the support they need.
We’re grateful to CBS Chicago for originally reporting this story, bringing attention to Ms. Scott’s meaningful act of giving. You can find their article here.
Want to Know More?
We invite you to learn about the impact of our integrated model, read the latest messages from our CEO, and maybe even make a donation.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Dear Aunt Martha’s Family and Friends,
While you may already be aware that Aunt Martha’s became the recipient of a $9 million donation from Ms. MacKenzie Scott, may not know about the tremendous recognition we’ve garnered from the local media. Today, we’re proud to share a handful of examples of the coverage by The Chicago Tribune, The Chicago Sun Times, The Daily Herald, Block Club Chicago, CBS Chicago, and Crain’s. It’s important that you’re aware of these stories, because you help make them possible. Every individual that has worked with us, supported us, and contracted with us over the years has helped make this outcome possible.
That being said, I am deeply honored and humbled to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the remarkable individuals and groups who have played an instrumental role in making this generous contribution to Aunt Martha’s a reality. Our success is a testament to the collective dedication, passion, and commitment of first and foremost our staff, but also our donors, stakeholders, consultants, volunteers, elected officials, advocates, partners, and of course the support of our Board of Directors. Other partnerships include the US Department of Health and Human Services, The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, Cook County, the Managed Care Organizations that work closely with us, along with all the other funders that have supported Aunt Martha’s over the past several years. Whether we have been in partnership for a single day or the entire 51 years of Aunt Martha’s operation, each and every one of you has made this donation and recognition possible.
For over 50 years, our dedicated staff has worked tirelessly to transform lives by breaking down barriers, giving a voice to the marginalized, and caring for our most vulnerable neighbors. Yield Giving’s trust in Aunt Martha’s – based on the substance of our values and substantial value of our work – is a strong endorsement of our approach and our vision. The recognition we have received is a testament to the value that Aunt Martha’s creates for our patients, participants, and DCFS youth through our innovative, integrated, health model of care. It is also validation of our history of fighting for the equitable treatment of underrepresented individuals and communities.
We have had some generous donors over the years. I want to take this time to thank the individuals we recognized at our 51st Annual Gala as being the most historically prolific donors: The National Council of Jewish Women South Cook Section, Michael and Helen Arkus, Andrew Madigan, Harish Bhatt, Homero Tristan, Jake Miller, John Dvorak, and Tory Cosich, all of whom we are so very thankful for. Now, I am proud to name the newest addition of the list: MacKenzie Scott.
Beyond these individuals and groups, there is Aunt Martha’s Legal Team, who has made it possible for us to thrive even through hardship. Aunt Martha’s has a history of fighting for the equitable treatment of historically underrepresented individuals and communities. Whether it’s an association, advisory committee, healthcare institution, or municipality, Aunt Martha’s will always speak up for the proper care and treatment of those we serve – whether it be health center patients, DCFS youth in care, or participants in our community-based programs. At times, our willingness to take a stand publicly has made some individuals uncomfortable. For others, however, it has only increased the respect they have for Aunt Martha’s and the work we do. Because of that, we will continue to fight for whatever is right no matter how forceful the pushback may be, because even though it may be the hard thing to do, it is the right thing to do.
I would also like to thank the individual who had a vision 51 years ago, Mr. Gary Leofanti, to help the underserved populations and many communities. That one vision has now turned into over 30 locations that serve 600 communities and 105,000 patients annually.
Together, you have all demonstrated unwavering support for our mission, and your tireless efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of the communities we serve. Your collaboration and generosity have allowed us to expand our reach and continue our vital work. Aunt Martha’s stands as a beacon of hope and support for those in need, and it is thanks to your remarkable contributions that we can continue to provide essential services and programs to those who rely on us. Your belief in our cause and your dedication to our vision are the driving forces behind our continued success.
We look forward to furthering our partnership and achieving even greater milestones together as we strive to make a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve. Your commitment inspires us every day, and we extend our deepest appreciation to each and every one of you.
Thank you for your invaluable support, and for being an essential part of the Aunt Martha’s family.
With gratitude,
Raul Garza
President and CEO
Aunt Martha’s Health and Wellness hosted its gala, Our Donors, Our Future, on September 5th, at 167 Green in Chicago, IL. Attendees gathered to celebrate and recognize key honorees who impacted and supported the organization throughout the years.
“Aunt Martha’s opened in 1972 with a staff of twelve volunteers and a budget of $2,500. Today, we take exceptional care of more than 56,000 patients, including 12,500 uninsured children and adults, in some of Illinois’ most vulnerable communities. That’s work we cannot do without the generosity of our donors—the people we celebrate this evening,” said Raul Garza, President and Chief Executive Officer, Aunt Martha’s Health and Wellness.
During the donor recognition ceremony, Garza presented awards to eight honorees, including: Michael and Helen Arkes; Harish Bhatt, Basinger Pharmacy; Tory Cosich, Proven IT; John Dvorak, Wintrust Bank, N.A.; Sharon Johnson, National Council of Jewish Women; Andrew Madigan, Alliant Insurance Services, Inc.; Jake Miller, Public Sector Solutions; Homero Tristan, Tristan & Cervantes Attorneys at Law.
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“It’s a privilege to share the stage with the donors we honored this evening. Aunt Martha’s has always been a place where every contribution is respected and welcome – whether that’s a donation, or a new idea, or an offer to lend a hand. The honorees tonight exemplify that spirit in their generosity and leadership,” said Garza as the evening concluded.
Individuals interested in donating to Aunt Martha’s Health and Wellness can text AMHW2023 to 76278.
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