Philadelphia, PA — August 13, 2021 — Independence Blue Cross (Independence) is urging individuals and families in Pennsylvania to complete a Pennie application to determine if they are eligible for free or low-cost health insurance before the deadline on August 15, 2021. Nearly two out of three Independence members enrolled through Pennie, the state-based health insurance exchange, are paying $0 a month in premiums.
Pennsylvanians who are uninsured or not eligible for health care coverage through an employer or government program may qualify for expanded tax credits to lower their monthly premiums. The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARP) increased the tax credits available to individuals and families and made health care coverage more affordable. To qualify for tax credits, individual consumers in Pennsylvania must submit an application by August 15 on the state-based health insurance exchange, Pennie.
For those who did not qualify for tax credits in the past, Independence is recommending individuals complete a Pennie financial application by the August 15 deadline to see if they are eligible for the first time. Pennsylvania’s health insurance exchange is the only place consumers can enroll in health plans with financial assistance, and Pennie will make the final determination for tax credit or premium subsidy eligibility.
Independence is also urging individuals to look at their options now that increased tax credits may have made health plans with lower out-of-pocket costs more affordable. For 2021, Independence continues to offer a variety of individual and family health plans with comprehensive health care coverage and the widest choice for quality health care in our region. The company offers health plan options with access to the most doctors and hospitals in the Philadelphia five-county region. And every Independence metallic level health plan includes virtual visits for primary care, behavioral health, and dermatology services through MDLIVE*.
Individuals who are not eligible for premium tax credits can visit Independence’s website, ibx.com, to find the health insurance coverage that is right for them and enroll in a health plan directly with Independence. For Spanish-speaking individuals, there is an easy-to-use Spanish-language website, ibx.com/mas.
*MDLIVE is an independent company
About Independence Blue Cross
Independence Blue Cross is the leading health insurance organization in southeastern Pennsylvania. For more than 80 years, we have been enhancing the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve. We deliver innovative and competitively priced health care products and services; pioneer new ways to reward doctors, hospitals, and other health care professionals for coordinated, quality care; and support programs and events that promote wellness. To learn more, visit ibx.com. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Independence Blue Cross is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
