Keystone Today

Open enrollment for health insurance through the Pennie began on November 1, giving Pennsylvanians the chance to use the online marketplace to choose the right plan for them.

According to a release by Gov. Tom Wolf’s office, the Pennie is the state’s online health insurance marketplace that offers residents a one-stop-shop to apply for insurance, compare plans and enroll in coverage.

“Obtaining affordable, quality health care has never been easier in Pennsylvania thanks to Pennie’s one-stop shop design,” Wolf said. “Through the online state-based system, Pennsylvanians have instant access to a variety of resources to help them understand how to apply, shop, and enroll in health coverage. They also have access to people who can help them through the process right in their own community. My administration is extremely proud to have signed legislation introducing Pennie in July 2019, with the goal of improving access for Pennsylvanians to secure the care they deserve, ultimately giving more people the opportunity to live healthier lives.”

The release said that 90% of Pennie customers qualify to save on their insurance. About 40% pay less than $75 per month.

The newest change is a federal policy move that helps families who have a spouse with insurance through their job. In 2023, anyone paying more than 9.2% of their income in a family plan through a job can use the Pennie to cut their coverage costs down. There were families that couldn’t receive subsidies through the Affordable Care Act in the past that were paying more than that percentage, and Wolf’s release said they can now use the Pennie to apply or update their application accordingly.

The open enrollment period for the Pennie runs until January 15, 2023. December 15 is the deadline for coverage beginning January 1, 2023. Those enrolling between December 16 and January 15 will have coverage beginning on February 1, 2023.