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What is Obamacare?Obamacare is the common name for the Affordable Care Act (ACA), a federal law designed to expand health-insurance coverage, lower medical costs, and protect people with pre-existing conditions.
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When can I enroll in Obamacare?There is an annual Open Enrollment Period each fall (e.g., Nov 1 – Jan 15 for the 2025 plan year). You may also qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you experience certain life events such as job loss, relocation, marriage, or the birth of a child.
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What if I miss Open Enrollment?If you miss Open Enrollment, check whether you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. If not, you may explore short-term health insurance or wait until the next Open Enrollment.
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Can I get coverage if I have a pre-existing condition?Yes. Under the ACA, insurers cannot deny coverage or raise premiums because of pre-existing conditions.
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What income level qualifies for premium subsidies?Typically, households earning between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (up to about 600% in some states) qualify for subsidies. Exact amounts vary by family size, state, and plan.
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How do I choose the right metal tier (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum)?Consider three factors: ① monthly premium, ② deductible and out-of-pocket maximum, and ③ expected healthcare use. Bronze plans work for healthy individuals who want lower premiums, while Gold or Platinum plans suit those expecting higher medical costs and preferring lower cost-sharing.
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Can I change my plan if I move or lose my job?Yes. Moving, job loss, marriage, divorce, or changes in household size are “qualifying life events” that trigger a 60-day Special Enrollment Period, allowing you to switch or select a new plan.
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Until what age can my child stay on my plan?Under the ACA, children can remain on a parent’s health plan until they turn 26, regardless of marital or employment status.
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What documents are needed to update my income or household information?Common documents include recent tax returns, pay stubs, unemployment letters, lease agreements, or birth/marriage/divorce certificates. After you upload them, you can track approval status online.
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What’s the difference between Obamacare marketplace plans and Medicaid?Medicaid is a joint federal-state public program for low-income individuals, usually with little or no premium cost. Obamacare marketplace plans are commercial policies that use income-based subsidies to lower premiums and generally serve people whose incomes are above Medicaid limits.
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If I already have insurance, do I still need Obamacare?If you already have employer-sponsored insurance or coverage through Medicaid or Medicare, you usually don’t need Obamacare. However, if your current plan doesn’t meet ACA standards, Obamacare might be a better option.
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How do I update my existing insurance information?Simply log into our system and fill out the “Update Information” form. If you’ve had a change in household, income, or address, please upload supporting documents.
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What services are covered under Obamacare?All compliant plans must cover 10 essential health benefits, including annual checkups, prescription drugs, hospitalization, maternity care, and mental health support.
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I’m not familiar with the process. Can you help me?Absolutely! We offer bilingual support (Chinese and English). From form filling to plan selection and application submission, Linor Service’s advisors are here to guide you every step of the way.
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