Because of demand, HealthCare.gov has extended the first deadline to midnight PST on Thursday, Dec. 17, for people who want to enroll in coverage effective Jan. 1, according to an announcement today.
The days leading up to the Dec. 15 deadline saw a surge in consumer demand, according to officials.
A spokesman said hundreds of thousands of people have already selected plans during the past two days and about 1 million consumers have left their contact information to hold their place in line.
“Our goal is to provide access to affordable coverage, and the additional 48 hours will give consumers an opportunity to come back and complete their enrollment for January 1 coverage,” said Kevin Counihan, HealthCare.gov CEO, in a statement.
If you want your coverage to begin on Jan. 1, visit HealthCare.gov or call 1-800-318-2696 to finish enrolling by Dec. 17.
Call the Marketplace Call Center for questions 24 hours a day. Call 1-800-318-2596. The call is free. To find in-person help in your community, visit localhelp.healthcare.gov.