PPACA 103-How Do I Sign Up?

A big question right now is "How will I get my Obamacare plan?" Luckily, the answer is simple. 

If you currently have a health insurance plan, keep an eye out for a letter from your carrier explaining your options moving forward. Some carriers will allow you to keep your plan into 2014 (and renew into a PPACA-compliant plan on your anniversary. Please note, this may mean you face penalties for having a "non-compliant" plan.) Some will automatically switch you into a compliant plan on January 1, 2014. Most will likely discontinue your existing plan on Dec. 31, 2013 and require manual enrollment in a new plan.

First things first: if you use a broker, talk to them. If you purchase on your own, go find a broker. If you've never purchased before, go find a broker. There are thousands of trained, licensed, and experienced brokers who have a much better understanding of the technicalities of healthcare and the new PPACA laws than anyone else. Many of us have been in the industry for years, and have been keeping tabs on PPACA for the past 3 years, learning as we go. The government created assistants, by whatever name they go by, have not even begun training or licensing. No matter what happens, there is no way their crash-course in healthcare will match years of real-world experience, training, and licensing.

Brokers will be able to enroll you in any plan. It's important to note, that means on or off exchange, individual or small group. There is nothing a broker is unable to write under the new PPACA system so long as they have the appropriate licensing.

With that said, New York residents (Small Businesses or Individuals) can sign up at http://www.HealthBenefitExchange.NY.gov/ . This is THE ONLY OFFICIAL NY EXCHANGE . Beware of imitators, as there are quite a few. Come October 1st, you will be able to enter your information, review plans and applicable tax credits, and enroll through this website.

Like you do today, you may sign up directly with a number of carriers by visiting their websites. You may also, of course, go through a broker. "Navigators" will be open by October 1st, they will run storefronts where you can visit and learn about your healthcare options and sign up. Since these don't exist yet, we unfortunately don't know anything more about how they will work.

Choosing a plan has large financial implications and contractual obligations, we highly advise seeking professional help in choosing a plan that best meets your needs.

Much like choosing a car, the cheapest or most expensive doesn't mean it's the best fit. Seek out a professional who will be able to evaluate your current health status, usage, doctors, prescription needs, future expenses, and financial status to find the plan that best suits your needs.