Smith says he never got any kind of confirmation, bill or policy and remained uninsured. Now the Charlotte woman is wondering: How can he do it this year and make sure it’s right?
The simplest answer is to get help. Insurance agents and ACA exchange counselors offer guidance at no charge. For an appointment with health insurance navigators, call 1-855-733-3711 in North Carolina and 1-888-998-4646 in South Carolina.
If you decide to go it alone, look for a bill from the insurance company you chose. Enrollment isn’t complete until the buyer has made the first payment, says Madison Hardee, a Legal Services of Southern Piedmont lawyer who is a health care navigator.
"However, we encourage consumers to be proactive and contact their insurance company a day or two after selecting a plan," Hardee added. "That way, they can confirm coverage and go ahead and pay the first month’s payment over the phone."
Other reader questions:
My wife and I got on the affordable care plan last year. Do we have to do anything to renew it?
No. If you do nothing by Dec. 15, the plan will automatically renew. But look at the statement from your insurance company detailing any changes in the plan or premium. Experts say it’s smart to go online, update your information and see if there are better deals this year.
In fact, the reader who sent this question followed up later that day saying he had just gotten a letter from Coventry saying his old policy was cancelled and offering a new one at three times his current premium, with a higher deductible.
How long do immigrants have to be in the country to qualify for insurance on the exchange?
Eligibility is based on legal status, not length of residence. Those who have become citizens, hold a green card or have been granted asylum or refugee status are eligible. People who are not in the United States legally can’t participate, regardless of how long they’ve been here. See www.healthcare.gov/immigrants/ for details.