🎉 ACA Open Enrollment's Done – What’s Next?

You’ve selected your ACA health insurance plan, completed your application, and received confirmation — now what? If you’re like most people, you’re wondering:

• When does your plan actually start?

• When will your payment be processed?

• Where are those ID cards?

• When can you expect your 1095-A form for taxes?

Let’s break it all down so you know exactly what to expect.

📅 When Will Your ACA Coverage Begin?

If you enrolled during open enrollment (typically Nov 1 – Jan 15), your coverage start date depends on when you submitted your application:

• Enrolled by December 15: Your coverage starts January 1.

• Enrolled December 16 – January 15: Your coverage starts February 1.

Important: The plan won’t actually activate unless your first premium payment is made on time, so don’t skip that step!

💳 When Will Your First Payment Be Processed?

After choosing your plan, your insurance company will typically send you a welcome packet or email with payment instructions. Here's the general payment timeline:

• Payment is due before your coverage begins (usually by the last day of the month before your start date).

• Most carriers process your payment within 3–5 business days once received.

Some carriers allow auto-pay setup, while others require a manual first payment. Either way, don’t wait until the last minute — processing delays could impact your ability to use the plan on day one.

🆔 When Will You Receive Your ID Cards?

Once your payment is processed:

• Digital ID cards are often available in your carrier’s app or online portal within a few days.

• Physical cards typically arrive by mail within 7–14 business days after payment is confirmed.

If you need care before your physical card arrives, check your member portal — most providers can verify your coverage with your member ID number.

🧾 When Will You Get Your 1095-A Form?

The 1095-A form is an important IRS tax document that shows the coverage you had through the federal marketplace and any subsidies received.

• The 1095-A is usually available by late January or early February of the following year (e.g., your 2025 form will be available by early 2026).

• You’ll receive it via mail or can download it from your HealthCare.gov account (or your state exchange site if you’re in a state-based marketplace).

Use this form when filing your taxes to reconcile premium tax credits.

Don’t skip it! It’s required for accurate tax filing!

✅ Final Tips

• Set reminders for payment deadlines.

• Check your spam folder for carrier communications.

• Log into your marketplace or carrier account weekly during this transition period.

• Reach out to your broker or agent if anything seems off.

Need help tracking your plan status or setting up payments?

At Lion’s Pride Insurance, we’re here to simplify the process because we’ve been there. 💙