Open Enrollment on Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace Begins Today

Virginians can now enroll in health coverage or change their existing plans on the Virginia Insurance Marketplace, starting today, November 1, and running until the end of Open Enrollment. This annual opportunity lets residents secure coverage without needing a special life event to qualify.

The state’s official insurance marketplace website, marketplace.virginia.gov, offers a streamlined, one-stop experience for comparing health plans, signing up for coverage, and connecting with local resources for assistance. According to state officials, almost 90% of Virginians qualify for financial assistance to make health insurance more affordable. These plans include essential benefits such as preventive services, hospital visits, and prescription medications.

Deepak Madala, director of Enroll Virginia, emphasized the importance of reviewing plans yearly. “We encourage shoppers to review their plans yearly instead of letting their coverage renew automatically,” Madala said. “Plan details and prices change yearly so that a different option might be better for you in 2025.”

This year’s enrollment period is especially significant because thousands of residents who lost Medicaid coverage may need to find new health insurance options. Virginia’s Medicaid program resumed annual renewals last year, and since March 2023, more than 500,000 people have lost eligibility.

Madala noted the urgency for those who are transitioning out of Medicaid. “The most important thing is to act fast when you lose your health coverage,” he explained. “That way, you’re less likely to miss important deadlines and experience a gap in your coverage. If you lose your Medicaid, a navigator can help you reapply or transition to a new low-cost plan.”

Enroll Virginia offers free, unbiased assistance through trained navigators for Virginians who need guidance. This nonprofit service, part of the Virginia Poverty Law Center, can explain health plan options, assist with enrollment, and ensure residents receive any financial help they’re eligible for. Support is available in person, virtually, or over the phone by calling Enroll Virginia’s helpline at 1-888-392-5132. Residents can also use the online locator at enrollva.org/get-help to schedule an appointment with a local navigator.

For direct enrollment or more information, consumers can visit marketplace.virginia.gov or call the consumer assistance center at 1-888-687-1501 (TTY: 711), open Monday through Saturday. Extended hours and language services are available to assist non-English speakers.