888-765-5400Bypass the Marketplace – Unsubsidized BCBSNC health plans
With all the talk surrounding the Affordable Care Act and government subsidies, it’s easy to think that a subsidized health plan through the federal Marketplace is the only kind available to you; however, that is not the case. ACA approved unsubsidized health plans are still available to all consumers and there is no need to visit the Marketplace to apply. In fact, every Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health plan is ACA compliant, meaning they cover the 10 essential benefits required under the Affordable Care Act and you are able to purchase the plans either with or without a federal subsidy. Federal subsidies are based entirely on income, and though many Americans do qualify for a tax credit to offset the costs of their monthly health insurance premiums, many other Americans do not. Initially this may seem like bad news, but it is not entirely without benefit.
If you currently do not qualify for a federal tax credit based on your income, although your monthly premiums may be higher, the application process itself will be much simpler. In fact, you can get an unsubsidized ACA approved BCBSNC health plan in only a few short minutes. With the exception of tobacco use, you will not have to answer any questions about your health and no income or tax information will be required. Furthermore, your health coverage will in no way impact your federal income tax, other than the fact that maintaining a health insurance policy will save you from incurring a tax penalty. Fluctuations in income will not need to be reported to the federal government because your health insurance premium is not being subsidized.
Another important fact to remember is that being eligible for a subsidy and being eligible for coverage are two different things. Just because you may not qualify for a subsidy does not mean you are ineligible for insurance. For example, your child might qualify for Medicaid and thus be unable to receive a federal subsidy; however, you can still purchase an ACA approved unsubsidized BCBSNC health plan for that child.
The main thing to keep in mind is that insurance plans and federal subsidies are two separate things and sometimes bypassing the Marketplace altogether is the smarter choice depending on your circumstance. Either way, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina can offer you coverage unlike any other. With the largest and most extensive network in North Carolina, BCBSNC is the best choice for you and your family – either on or off the Marketplace.
For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents. Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.