CMS extends special enrollment period until Aug. 15

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services yesterday extended until Aug. 15 the special enrollment period launched Feb. 15 at the federally facilitated marketplace in response to the COVID-19 public health emergency. 

“This action will allow individuals and families more time to access the SEP and enroll in Marketplace coverage with the increased tax credits to reduce their premiums, and for current enrollees to change plans in response to the availability of increased tax credits if they wish to do so,” the agency said. 

The American Rescue Plan Act made more people eligible for marketplace subsidies and increased the amount of the subsidies, including allowing those making between 100% and 150% of the federal poverty level and those receiving unemployment compensation in 2021 to pay no premium for certain Marketplace plans. For more on the SEP, see the agency’s updated guidance.