OCI Releases Frequently Asked Questions on the Renewal Process
Madison, WI—Consumers who purchased ACA-compliant health insurance plans are receiving their renewal letters in the mail. Since this process is new, it is important for consumers to understand how to keep their policy, how to estimate their new subsidy amount, and how to change insurance policies, if desired.
"This will be the first renewal for many people who purchased coverage through the exchange," explained Insurance Commissioner Ted Nickel. "Unfortunately, the renewal process required by the federal exchange is unfamiliar, and the new rules have made renewing health insurance more complicated than in the past. Our new frequently asked questions document is intended to help consumers understand the process." Please see the Frequently Asked Questions—Renewal Process on OCI's Web site at
oci.wi.gov/healthcare_ref/healthcarereform_renewalfaq.pdf.
Commissioner Nickel also has a number of suggestions to ensure that consumers have a smooth experience in keeping their health insurance coverage for 2015.
- Contact your agent. Your agent should be able to help you through the renewal process. If you want to choose a new plan, an agent can give you advice on choosing the best plan for you. If you want to reenroll in your current plan, your agent can help you with that as well.
- Contact your insurer. If you want to keep your current coverage and do not have an agent, your insurer may be able to help you through the process or refer you to an agent who specializes in their plans.
- Update your information through the exchange. If you are receiving a subsidy, you should update your information through the exchange. Your agent, a certified application counselor, or navigator may be able to help you with this process.
- Verify your coverage. Last year, insurers had trouble receiving necessary information from the exchange. Hopefully all the kinks are worked out, but it never hurts to verify your coverage with your insurer.
- Check your accounts. If you pay your bills automatically, you'll want to make sure that only one insurance company at a time is billing you for coverage. Make sure to check your bank and credit card statements.
"Consumers who wish to keep or cancel their coverage should contact their insurance agent and their insurer," continued Commissioner Nickel. "Based on federal guidance, consumers could face situations in which they have lost coverage or could be charged for two different health insurance policies. In this case, an ounce of prevention will be much more effective than a pound of cure."
For more information, visit our health reform page at
oci.wi.gov/healthcare_reform.htm.
Created by the Legislature in 1871, Wisconsin's Office of the Commissioner of Insurance (OCI) was vested with broad powers to ensure that the insurance industry responsibly and adequately met the insurance needs of Wisconsin citizens. Today, OCI's mission is to lead the way in informing and protecting the public and responding to its insurance needs.