“On Saturday, Americans who don’t get health insurance through an employer, Medicare or Medicaid can start signing up for Obamacare coverage next year through the federal website, healthcare.gov, or one of the state-run marketplaces,” Reed Abelson and Margot Sanger-Katz write over at The New York Times. “This year’s enrollment promises to be more confusing than those in the past. Congress is at a standoff over this year’s expiration of extra tax credits that had lowered the cost of coverage. The federal government has been shut down for more than a month, with the Republican-controlled House and Senate opposing the Democrats’ demand to extend the enhanced subsidies as a condition for reopening the government. Most people now enrolled under the Affordable Care Act will still be eligible for some federal tax credits, but many will see their monthly costs soar without the extra help. Some may no longer qualify for a subsidy, and others will receive less assistance than they did this year. The resulting price jolt and congressional impasse will complicate a sign-up process that has historically been cumbersome for many Americans. … Lower subsidies aren’t the only deciding factor in choosing next year’s insurance. The underlying cost of the plans is also increasing significantly. Don’t automatically renew your current coverage before looking at alternatives. You may want to consult a licensed broker or check out the resources listed on the marketplace website for help.” Reed Abelson and Margot Sanger-Katz, “How to shop for Obamacare when subsidies are in limbo,” (gift link), The New York Times.
