Health Insurance Coverage Loss

Health Insurance Coverage Loss


We want all Utahns to get health insurance and stay covered. If you have lost your health insurance or your federal Marketplace plan is too expensive, here are some resources:

1. Apply for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program.

If you think you may be eligible for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), you may apply at any time. Even if you’ve lost coverage in the past, you can reapply. 

If you have questions about applying for these programs, you can call 1-877-543-7669.

2. If you do not qualify for Medicaid or CHIP, you can enroll in a Catastrophic Health Plan.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is offering Catastrophic Health Plans during open enrollment (November 1 - January 15).

What is a Catastrophic Health Plan?

Catastrophic Health Plans have low monthly premiums and very high deductibles. They can help protect you financially in worst-case scenarios, like getting seriously sick or injured. 

Who can qualify for catastrophic coverage?

  • People under 30 years old
  • People over 30 years old, who don't qualify for Advanced Premium Tax Credits on a Marketplace plan
  • For people over age 30, if you don't qualify for Medicaid or tax credits, you may now be able to enroll in a Catastrophic Health Plan by qualifying for one of two exemptions:
  1. Affordability exemption: If the lowest-cost coverage available to you would cost more than 7.97% of your household income.
  2. Hardship exemption: If you faced a financial or domestic hardship preventing you from getting coverage. Hardship examples include:
  • Homelessness or facing eviction/foreclosure.
  • Getting a utility shut-off notice.
  • Substantial debt from medical expenses.
  • Experiencing the death of a family member.
  • Filing for bankruptcy.

What will the Catastrophic Health Plan cover?

  • Lower premiums: More affordable monthly payment option.
  • Essential care: All plans include free preventive care and three primary care visits before your deductible.
  • Protection: Acts as a safety net against high medical costs from a serious illness or injury.

How do you apply?

Start your application on HealthCare.gov. Your income will be reviewed, and new processes are in place to automatically evaluate eligibility based on your income. You can also submit the hardship exemption form by mail.

The online process and a paper application process will help you get the necessary Exemption Certificate Number (ECN) to enroll.