FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ST. PAUL, Minn.— MNsure is reminding Minnesotans that are currently enrolled in a private health plan through MNsure that they have the option of renewing into the same plan or selecting a new plan during the upcoming open enrollment period beginning November 1. With rates declining across the state from 7 to 27 percent, MNsure recommends that private health plan enrollees use our new /shop-compare/index.jspplan comparison tool to find a plan that fits their needs.

Below is a brief guide to assist consumers with coverage options this open enrollment:

Keeping the same plan
Minnesotans who would like to keep the same plan will be automatically renewed into the same plan, as long as the plan is still offered by the insurance company. They will continue to receive an invoice from their insurance company and must continue to make payments in order to maintain coverage. To ensure coverage is renewed, consumers should respond quickly to any requests for additional information.

Verifying a plan is still available
If an enrollee’s current plan is no longer available through MNsure, their insurance company will inform them of this change. They will have to select another plan on MNsure to continue to receive financial help, like tax credits and cost-sharing reductions (if they qualify). They can also use MNsure’s “crosswalk tool” to see if their current plan is available on MNsure in 2019. MNsure strongly encourages enrollees to come back to the website at the start of open enrollment and compare plans to ensure they are getting the best deal and the best coverage for their family.

Changing plans
Minnesotans who wish to change plans must log in to their MNsure account on MNsure.org during open enrollment and select a different plan by December 15 (the deadline for January 1, 2019 coverage).

If enrollees have questions about their plan features, such as deductibles, networks or co-pays, they can call their insurance company.

"With rates declining across the state, we encourage Minnesotans to visit MNsure.org and use our new plan comparison tool to find the right plan," said Nate Clark, MNsure CEO. "Open enrollment starts next Thursday, November 1, and financial assistance is only available to consumers who enroll through MNsure.org."

Family members currently enrolled in Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare do not have to take any action to renew their coverage unless directed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

Additional frequently asked questions about renewing 2019 coverage.

MNsure's sixth open enrollment period runs November 1, 2018 to January 13, 2019. Over 480,000 Minnesotans have accessed coverage through MNsure during the 2018 plan year. MNsure's customer service guide is located here. More information can be found at mnsure.org.