41° and Partly Cloudy
New Initiative Eases Health Insurance Enrollment for New Jerseyans
Tax Time Turns Into Enrollment Time for Uninsured Residents Through Innovative State Program
TRENTON, NJ - The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance introduces a groundbreaking pathway to health insurance for its residents. The newly launched New Jersey Easy Enrollment Health Insurance Program is set to revolutionize access to affordable health coverage via Get Covered New Jersey, the state's Official Health Insurance Marketplace, during the 2023 State Income Tax return filing.
This initiative enables New Jerseyans without health insurance to express their interest in obtaining coverage for themselves or their household members directly on their tax returns. "This is an exciting opportunity to help even more New Jersey residents obtain coverage," stated Acting Commissioner Justin Zimmerman, emphasizing the program's potential to extend health insurance to a wider audience.
The process begins with residents indicating their consent on their State Income Tax Return for GetCoveredNJ to assist in obtaining coverage. They must complete the NJ-EZ Enroll Form, included with the 2023 Income Tax Forms. Subsequently, Get Covered New Jersey will reach out to consumers with a welcome notice containing a unique access code, granting them the ability to check for financial assistance eligibility and enroll in a health plan within 60 days of notice.
State Treasurer Elizabeth Maher Muoio and Human Services Commissioner Sarah Adelman have voiced strong support for the program, highlighting its significance in closing the insurance gap and ensuring every New Jerseyan has access to vital health services. Additionally, the Department of Labor and Workforce Development is collaborating to provide access to Get Covered New Jersey for individuals filing for unemployment claims, further broadening the program's reach.
New Jersey maintains a health coverage mandate, but through this program, the Department of Treasury will waive the Shared Responsibility Payment for uninsured individuals who enroll and maintain their coverage. This initiative, applauded by policy analysts and advocacy groups, represents a significant step towards achieving universal health coverage in the state.
The Easy Enrollment program was made possible by legislation signed by Governor Murphy in 2022, with key support from Senators Teresa Ruiz and Nellie Pou, and Assembly members Anthony Verrelli, Angela McKnight, and John McKeon. Its success lies in leveraging the annual tax filing process as a vital connection point for uninsured residents to access affordable healthcare options.
For more details on enrolling and the benefits of the New Jersey Easy Enrollment Health Insurance Program, residents are encouraged to visit the Get Covered New Jersey website. This innovative approach not only simplifies the enrollment process but also aligns with New Jersey's goal of ensuring comprehensive health coverage for all its citizens.
