What is this new law?

President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARP) into law on March 11, 2021. ARP makes major improvements in access to and affordability of health coverage through the Marketplace by increasing eligibility for financial assistance to help pay for Marketplace coverage.

The new law will lower premiums for most people who currently have a Marketplace health plan and expand access to financial assistance for more consumers. Starting April 1, 2021, consumers enrolling in Marketplace coverage will be able to take advantage of these increased savings and lower costs.

Lower costs and expanding access

Under the American Rescue Plan

• Individuals and families may be eligible for a temporary increase in premium tax credits for this year, with no one paying more than 8.5% of their household income toward the cost of the benchmark plan or a less expensive plan. Meaning, many consumers will be eligible for higher tax credit amounts to help cover their Marketplace health plan premiums. 
• Individuals and families get a temporary boost in their premium tax credits. 
• Taxpayers who receive unemployment compensation during any week beginning in 2021 may be eligible to receive premium tax credits to help pay for 2021 Marketplace coverage.

Member communications

We've sent the following communications to members around the American Rescue Plan Act and during the Special Enrollment Period:

• American Rescue Plan (ARP) Member Communication Sample (Off-Exchange)
• American Rescue Plan (ARP) Member Communication Sample (On-Exchange) 
• The Blue Wire Newsletter (BlueEssentials)
• The Blue Wire Newsletter (BlueExclusive)

Agent communications

We've sent the following communications to agents around the American Rescue Plan Act and during the Special Enrollment Period:

• State Continuation of Coverage Outreach to Small Group Leaders

Frequently asked questions

Please refer to this list of FAQs to help guide you when speaking about this plan with your clients.