Insurance support options

With the significant increases in our health insurance costs over the last two years, I wanted to make sure all members are aware that some employees and families may now qualify for health coverage assistance programs that they may not have qualified for in the past.

Depending on household income, family size, and the cost of employer coverage, some employees may qualify for:

• MassHealth coverage,

• ConnectorCare subsidized plans through the Massachusetts Health Connector,

• or MassHealth Premium Assistance programs that help pay part of employer insurance premiums.

Importantly, eligibility is based on more than just salary. Family size, the cost of family coverage, and changes to federal affordability rules can all affect whether someone qualifies. In some cases:

• children may qualify even if adults do not,

• family members may qualify separately,

• or employees may qualify for subsidies even if insurance is offered through work.

Because our premiums have increased substantially, employees who were previously over the income limits or considered to have “affordable” coverage may want to check again.

Here are two helpful Massachusetts tools:

• Massachusetts Health Connector estimate tool:
  Health Connector Estimate Tool

• Employer insurance affordability calculator:
  Employer Insurance Affordability Tool

You can also learn more about MassHealth Premium Assistance here:

• MassHealth Premium Assistance Information

This is not financial or legal advice, and eligibility varies by household, but given the recent premium increases it may be worthwhile for members to explore their options.

Your salary information is found at the end of your contract. https://sites.google.com/view/eeamembers/documents?authuser=0