Signups for the Affordable Care Act begin Sunday, Nov. 1.
Signups for the Affordable Care Act begin Sunday, Nov. 1. Credit: Jonathan Van Fleet

The largest expansion of benefits since the launch of the Affordable Care Act in 2013 years ago will kick in Thursday, with new opportunities to enroll in health coverage through the Marketplace and get lower pricing.

The change is part of the American Rescue Act from the Biden administration.

New rules to expand coverage options for those who currently have ACA insurance will expand subsidies and lower monthly premiums. Anyone currently enrolled or those who are uninsured and need coverage can take advantage of expanded financial help, which means that many high-income earners can now be able to qualify for the lower-cost plans.

Additionally, uninsured people who received any unemployment compensation benefits in 2021 will have special access to free or reduced-cost plans.

New Hampshire residents have from April 1 until August 15 to enroll in the program.

Premiums will decrease, on average, by $50 per person per month or by $85 per policy per month. Four out of five enrollees will find a plan for $10 or less/month after premium tax credits.

New Hampshire Navigator is available to provide free help with signing up and applying for subsidies. Those already enrolled must update their application to receive the new rates.

Call (603) 931-3858 to get free enrollment assistance or go to acanavigator.com.