Kynect private-insurance enrollment runs through Feb. 15; exchange works to get taxpayers information to prove coverage

With the close of open enrollment coming Feb. 15, state officials are making a final push to get Kentuckians to enroll in Medicaid or buy private, subsidized health insurance on the state's health benefits exchange, Kynect.

The federal health reform law requires most people to have health insurance or pay a penalty, and Kynect says it is working to help Kentuckians get the information they need to prove coverage when they file their tax returns.

Outreach events continue at several campuses in the Kentucky Community and Technical College System. Events are open to the general public and will feature "Kynectors" who answer questions and help people find a plan that fits their needs and budgets. Tthe remaining events will be at:

• Bluegrass Community and Technical College, Leestown and Newtown campuses, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Feb. 2 and 3.
• Jefferson Community and Technical College, downtown Louisville campus, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Feb. 4 and 5.
• Gateway Community and Technical College, Covington campus (Two Rivers Building), 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Feb. 9 and 10.
• Gateway Community and Technical College, Boone County campus, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Feb. 11 and 12.

As of 3:30 p.m. Jan. 29, 50,754 new applications for coverage had been submitted to Kynect; 43,181 people had been newly enrolled in Medicaid; 75,760 people had renewed their private insurance; 18,533 had newly enrolled in a private plan; and 4,914 individuals had enrolled in dental plans.

Kynect Director Carrie Banahan said, “If you or anyone you know remains without health insurance the time to enroll in coverage through Kynect is now. Please don’t delay. Enroll as soon as possible.”

Those who need health insurance are encouraged to log on to www.Kynect.ky.gov, call 1-855-4kynect (459-6328), or contact an insurance agent or Kynector before the Feb. 15 deadline. Medicaid enrollment is open year-round.

Taxpayers, take note

Individuals who qualified for an advanced premium tax credit, or subsidy, through Kynect will receive a 1095-A tax form in the mail. The form provides information for individuals and families who received payment assistance to help them fill out IRS Form 8962 as part of their federal return.

"Kynect has instituted a robust training and information program to help individuals, Kynectors, insurance agents and tax preparers understand the requirements," a state press release said. "Individuals with questions about their Form 1095-A may also call a special Kynect hotline at 1-844-373-2417.

Individuals with Medicaid, KCHIP, Medicare, catastrophic health insurance or insurance through an employer or other agency do not need Form 1095-A to file their federal income taxes.