Before we jump right into Vermont health insurance and everything you need to know, let’s start with a little background information. In 2010, the Affordable Care Act (a.k.a “Obamacare” or ACA) was passed with the goal of getting all Americans access to affordable health insurance. To meet this goal, one measure Obamacare took was to create the ACA health insurance marketplaces, or health exchanges: one-stop shops where Americans can choose from a range of standardized, government-regulated health care plans. Health exchanges are also where eligible people can get subsidies, which lower the cost of their health plans.

States were given the option to run their own local exchange, take part in a multi-state exchange, or use the federal exchange. States that run their own exchanges get to customize many elements, including the time frame during which their residents can sign up for a plan. Several states decided to operate their own state exchanges and continue to do so to this day. Vermont is one of those states.

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Vermont’s Health Insurance Landscape

The Vermont health insurance exchange is called Vermont Health Connect. Before the ACA, 7.8% of Vermonters were uninsured. Since the introduction of Vermont Health Connect, the percent of Vermonters without health insurance has dropped to 4.4% as of 2019.

As of January 2021, 24,215 people had enrolled in a Vermont health plan.

The Vermont Health Insurance Exchange

Vermont Health Connect is where eligible people throughout the state can find subsidized ACA plans. Open Enrollment for 2022 in Vermont begins November 1, 2021 and ends December 15, 2021. Your coverage will start January 1. This sign-up window is the exact same as the window given on the federal exchange.

Vermont Health Connect encourages people who aren’t eligible for subsidies to directly enroll through their insurance company rather than through the exchange. This helps Vermont Health Connect provide better customer service and reduce costs.

Like all other state exchanges, each plan on Vermont Health Connect covers 10 essential health benefits. These include things like prescription coverage, maternity and mental health care, and laboratory services.

Buying insurance with Vermont Health Connect involves four steps:

1. Create an account on Vermont Health Connect

2. Complete the online application form

3. Compare your options

4. Select your plan and enroll

In true health insurance fashion, each of these steps can be trickier than you expect. Many people need help navigating the website, estimating their income, figuring out if they are eligible for subsidies, and understanding what documents are needed for proof of income, citizenship, or identity. Luckily, you can find an in-person assister to help you with your application!

Vermont Health Connect’s Intricacies: What You Need to Know for 2022

Both insurers that offered plans on Vermont Health Connect for 2021 will continue to do so for 2022. This means both carriers are returning to the exchange. These two carriers include:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont

• MVP Health Care

In 2021, both companies increased their rates. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont raised the average cost of their plans by 4.2% and MVP Health Care raised its average by 2.7%. Another rate increase is possible for 2022.

While this may seem scary, most health insurance shoppers can generally avoid rate increases entirely by switching to the cheapest plan within their metal tier. Most people also qualify for a health insurance subsidy, which can help make your plan more affordable. On average, Vermonters who qualify for subsidies receive $294 in savings.

If you live in Vermont, Open Enrollment (the time of year when you can enroll in a new health plan) has begun. Find your most affordable plan, and you’ll be well on your way for smarter, better savings all year long. And don’t forget—if you need help finding a subsidy or picking a plan, our experts are here to help! Start comparing plans by entering your zip code below.