FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Jenni Bowring-McDonough
Media Relations Coordinator

ST. PAUL, Minn. - Minnesotans who want health coverage beginning April 1 have until Saturday, March 15, at 5 p.m. to enroll and pay for health plans through MNsure. With the March 15 deadline fast approaching, MNsure today addressed some frequently asked questions to help Minnesota consumers more quickly and efficiently complete the enrollment process.

The March 15 deadline does not apply to Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare; more information is below.

Q: What is the deadline for enrolling and paying through MNsure if I want health insurance starting April 1?

A: Individuals using MNsure to find new coverage effective April 1, 2014, must enroll and pay by 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2014.

Q: What is my deadline for payment if I want to pay online?

A: Consumers using the MNsure online payment option must make their payment by 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 15. This option is only possible if an individual can complete the entire enrollment, plan selection and payment process in one sitting.

Q: What is my deadline for making the initial payment if I want to pay by check?

A: Paying online is the best option for those shopping for health insurance through MNsure. However, if consumers choose to pay the carrier directly, they must send payment to their selected insurance company and ensure it arrives by March 15 to have coverage begin April 1. Consumers should include their MNsure identification number on the check to aid the carrier in matching up the check with the appropriate policyholder.

Q: What is my deadline for payment if I want to pay in person?

A: For those who wish to pay in person at their insurance company's main office, the deadline for this payment option is 3:30 p.m. on Friday, March 14. Consumers who wish to use this payment option must enroll in their plan online through MNsure and then pay in person by this date. Health insurance company main offices will not be open Saturday, March 15.

Q: What are the deadlines for those who qualify for Medical Assistance (MA) or MinnesotaCare?

A: The March 15 deadline does not apply to Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare. For Medical Assistance, eligible individuals will be covered for the entire month in which they apply. For MinnesotaCare, individuals will have until March 31 to apply for coverage effective April 1. Visit the MinnesotaCare Premiums website or call MinnesotaCare at 651-297-3862 or 1-800-657-3672 for more information about premiums.