Finding healthcare is of special concern due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  A federal pandemic relief package approved on January 28, 2021 included a new Special Enrollment Period for health insurance coverage through the Affordable Care Act's Marketplace.

The Healthcare.gov Marketplace enrollment reopened on February 15, 2021 and will remain open until August 15, 2021.

There are several local resources that can help you navigate the application process or may assist you in paying your health insurance premiums:
 

United Way of Dane County's HealthConnect

HealthConnect is available if you need assistance paying your 2021 premiums. United Way of Dane County can help lower-income individuals and families who make too much to be eligible for BadgerCare purchase insurance in the Marketplace via the HealthConnect Premium Assistance Program. Made possible because of donations from UW Health and Quartz, HealthConnect pays the balance of eligible participants’ monthly health insurance premium not covered by the Premium Tax Credit available through the Marketplace.

To be eligible, you must live in Dane County, be a US Citizen or legal resident, enroll in a Marketplace health plan and fall within the below income ranges:

• Family of 1: $12,760-19,140 per year
• Family of 2: $17,240-25,860 per year
• Family of 3: $21,720-32,580 per year
• Family of 4: $26,200-39,300 per year
• Families of 5+: see webpage for more information

To learn more or to apply, visit https://www.unitedwaydanecounty.org/healthconnect/. Further questions can be directed to the 211 help line.
 

Covering Wisconsin

Covering Wisconsin can help you navigate the healthcare Marketplace through HealthCare.gov. You may be able to get free or low-cost health insurance through the Marketplace. Call 211 or visit wiscovered.com for more info.
 

Financial Navigators

Madison residents seeking help with financial concerns due to the COVID-19 pandemic can contact a new, free hotline to be connected with a “Financial Navigator” – a person they can talk to about their financial concerns, including health insurance coverage and costs.

To access the hotline or learn more:

• Visit https://www.cityofmadison.com/financialhotline and fill out a short interest form
• Call (608) 266-6300 weekdays 10am-6pm or Saturdays 12-5pm to sign up.

Internet Access

If you need help accessing the internet to apply for insurance through Healthcare.gov's Marketplace, make a computer appointment at a Madison Public Library.