KELLOGG — Applying for insurance can be confusing, but Your Health Idaho (YHI) is working to help. YHI is an online marketplace for Idaho families and small businesses to shop, compare and choose the health insurance coverage that is right for them.

The period for Open Enrollment will close on Dec. 15 and YHI is encouraging individuals to sign up as soon as possible, urging customers to start immediately.

Communications and Outreach Marketing Director of YHI Nichole Lapierre reports that enrollments are up more than 80% compared to last year. “With the implementation of real-time eligibility, applying for a tax credit and coverage is now done on the same application. Within minutes, Idahoans will find out their tax credit amount, allowing them to start shopping immediately.”

Yourhealthidaho.org is the only place Idahoans can apply for and use tax credits to significantly lower monthly premiums.

A local representative explained that the most important factor for Silver Valley locals, or any Idaho consumer to understand while looking for health insurance during open enrollment is to apply as early as possible, even though enrollment period extends to Dec. 15.

“That is the date to have everything completed and finalized,” explained the representative. “I always suggest applications be submitted as soon as possible rather than waiting for the last minute to make sure there is time to take care of any unexpected glitches.”

For Idahoans needing help enrolling or determining if they qualify for a tax credit, YHI recommends working with a YHI-certified insurance agent or broker. Their services are available at no cost. A list of certified agents and brokers as well as enrollment counselors are available online at YourHealthIdaho.org/find-help.

YHI was established following the passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in 2010. As Idaho’s health insurance marketplace, YHI is an independent entity overseen by a 19-member board of Idahoans, including insurance agents, physicians, business owners, legislators and nonprofit representatives.

Idahoans who want health insurance for the upcoming year must pick their plan by midnight, Dec. 15. Coverage for plans selected during Open Enrollment begins Jan. 1, 2023.

Applicants can contact YHI directly at 855-944-3246 or apply online at yourhealthidaho.org