6/14/2018 11:06:31 AM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DULUTH, Minn.—Preliminary health insurance rates proposed by Minnesota health insurance companies will be available on the Minnesota Department of Commerce website on Friday, June 15.
Private insurance companies set premium prices, and the Minnesota Department of Commerce regulates those companies. Final, approved 2019 premium rates will be available by October 2, and the 2019 open enrollment period begins on November 1. Minnesotans shopping for health insurance through the individual market may be able to reduce premium costs in three ways:
1. See if you are eligible for tax credits only available through MNsure
According to the latest Minnesota Health Access Survey performed by the Minnesota Department of Health, "nearly one-fourth of uninsured Minnesotans in 2017 (about 75,000 people) appeared income eligible for premium subsidies in the individual market through MNsure."
Currently, three-quarters MNsure enrollees qualify for some time of financial assistance, and the state-wide average tax credit in the most recent open enrollment period was nearly $7,000 per year.
"We don't want Minnesotans to leave money on the table" said Nate Clark, acting CEO of MNsure. “Stop by mnsure.org and see if you are eligible for instant discounts off your monthly premium.”
2. Use MNsure's shop and compare tools to see if you qualify for financial help
Minnesotans can compare benefits, /shop-compare/right-plan/quality-ratings.jspplan quality ratings, /shop-compare/right-plan/drug-lists.jspcovered drug lists, total estimated cost and much more using MNsure's plan comparison tool. Consumers who compare plans on MNsure are often able to find comparable plans at reduced prices, as well as see all costs associated with a particular plan, such as co-pays, deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums.
"MNsure is the only place Minnesotans can compare plans and insurance carriers side-by-side," said Clark. "Get all of the information you need to select the best plan for you and your family."
/financial-help/index.jspMore information about financial assistance is available.
3. FREE in-person MNsure assistance in your community
MNsure has /help/find-assister/index.jspcertified brokers and navigators throughout Minnesota who can provide free, in-person enrollment help. MNsure-certified brokers and navigators can help consumers select a plan, complete an application, and identify financial assistance.
"MNsure has an extremely knowledge group of established assister partners that are ready and available to help you every step of the way," said Clark.
Though open enrollment through MNsure has ended, individuals who have recently had a baby, got married, moved, or lost their health coverage may be eligible for /new-customers/enrollment-deadlines/special-enrollment/index.jspspecial enrollment.
Over 115,000 Minnesotans have found private health coverage through MNsure this year. More information can be found at mnsure.org.