Top Five: Reasons You Should Put This Gift at the Top of Your Holiday List

Ever feel like the holiday season goes by in one hectic blur, leaving you exhausted and in need of some R&R? We often give so much to others that we neglect to take care of ourselves. This year, in between the school recital, the office party and the trip to visit family, slow down and take a few minutes to give yourself something special – the gift of health care – and get covered.

Open enrollment is underway in the Health Insurance Marketplace, where millions of Americans are going to compare and buy health insurance plans – many through HealthCare.gov. The Marketplace is designed to make buying health care easier and more affordable. Since the Marketplace opened for business last year, millions of people have signed up for plans, paid their premiums and accessed quality, affordable coverage. In fact, more than 60 percent found coverage for less than $100 a month. Who doesn’t like getting a lot for their money?

Here are more reasons to put this gift to yourself at the top of your holiday list and get covered:

Reason #1: Like a gift card, it’s a popular choice. More than 1.3 million consumers have selected plans since the start of open enrollment on November 15. There have also been more than 2.5 million calls to the call center and almost 8 million visitors to HealthCare.gov.

Reason #2: You won’t be duped by expensive warranties. Because of the health care law, you have more consumer protections in your plan. You can’t be denied because of a pre-existing condition or face yearly or lifetime limits. You may also be eligible for tax credits to lower your costs.

Reason #3: You won't have to stand in line to switch it for a different size. Shop multiple coverage options and find a plan that fits your budget and your health care needs. With 25 percent more issuers this year, you’ll have even more choices for 2015.

Reason #4:You won’t end up discreetly re-gifting it at the office swap next year. Once you’re covered, you can take advantage of preventive services with no co-pay and other benefits so you save on out-of-pocket costs. Learn more about making the most of your insurance.

Reason #5: Even on December 26, you still have time. Sign up by January 15, and you can start coverage as soon as February 1. Marketplace open enrollment closes for 2015 on February 15.

The Affordable Care Act has made health insurance coverage more affordable and accessible to you. So what are you waiting for? Visit HealthCare.gov or call 800-318-2596 to sign up and get covered, and give to your loved ones this season by giving back to yourself.