Health Insurance

This page describes how the public can take part in health insurance rate requests. You can submit public comments, attend public rate review hearings or ask to be an interested party or a friend of the court.

You can appeal any Vermont Health Connect (VHC) decision about your eligibility for a health care plan, premium assistance or cost sharing assistance by asking for a fair hearing. You have 90 days from the date shown on the decision you receive to ask for a fair hearing.

If you miss open enrollment, only certain life events allow you to buy a plan during other times of the year. These are called “qualifying events.”

This page tells you how to apply for a health plan through Vermont Health Connect.

Some Vermonters may be able to get cost-sharing reductions (CSR) that lower the amount you have to pay when you get health care services. To qualify for cost-sharing reductions, you must have an income below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level, and be enrolled in a Silver Plan through Vermont Health Connect

Many Vermonters can get financial help to lower the cost of a health insurance plan through Vermont Health Connect (VHC). One type of financial help is called the premium tax credit.

To help you compare costs and coverage fairly, health plans on Vermont Health Connect are divided into four “metal levels” or categories: platinum, gold, silver and bronze.

Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) are accounts where you put aside money to use on health care expenses.

Small employers that offer health coverage to employees can use Vermont Health Connect to find coverage for their employees. Your small business may also qualify for tax credits to help with the cost of employee coverage.

This page offers links to guides to buying health insurance.