April 1, 2021

The special enrollment period for the exchange insurance market has been extended until Aug. 15, 2021. The federal government announced a special enrollment period Feb. 15, 2021, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is estimated that 15 million Americans lack insurance and are eligible for Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage. Many are eligible for free or reduced-cost coverage.

“BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina’s representatives are ready to help consumers navigate the marketplace and find the best plan for their budgets and their lives. Four out of five people can get a health plan for less than $10 a month and many qualify for a $0 cost plan,” said Denise Jefferson, director of direct marketing and retail strategies with BlueCross.

Consumers who are eligible for an ACA health insurance plan and are not currently covered by a health insurance plan may enroll now through Aug. 15. Anyone who enrolls during this time period will have health insurance that starts the following month. For example, if a consumer enrolls in an ACA plan on April 15, coverage will begin May 1.

Beginning April 1, many consumers will be eligible for tax credits to reduce their premiums for marketplace coverage. Those who did not qualify before might now be eligible under the expanded relief plan. In addition to uninsured consumers, BlueCross ACA members could be eligible for free or reduced-cost coverage.

“BlueCross ACA members don’t need to do anything. They can keep their existing coverage and receive any additional tax credits they may be eligible for when they file their 2021 federal income taxes next year,” Jefferson said. “If they prefer to see if they qualify for immediate monthly savings, they can determine their eligibility by contacting their agent or calling us.”

BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina offers low-cost and $0 premium plans that include:

• Largest network of doctors and hospitals in the state
• Rewards dollars to use toward out-of-pocket health care expenses
• Telehealth services
• Award-winning customer service

Consumers and current ACA members with questions about enrolling in a BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina ACA plan can call our toll-free hotline at 833-271-6664. Consumers can also learn more and enroll in a BlueCross ACA plan at www.MySCPlan.com.

About BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina

Headquartered in Columbia and operating in South Carolina for 74 years, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The only South Carolina-owned and operated health insurance carrier, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina comprises more than 20 companies involved in health insurance services, U.S. DoD health program and Medicare contracts, other insurance and employee benefits services, and a philanthropic foundation that funds programs to improve health care and access to health care for South Carolinians. It holds an A+ rating from A.M. Best.