FAQ
About Nevada Health Link
What happens if I miss the open enrollment deadline?
Certain changes in an individual’s life can make them eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) and allow them to enroll at any time during the year. Examples of qualifying life events include: loss of employer-based coverage, moving, turning 26, and changes in family size through marriage, divorce or the birth of a child. Learn more: https://www.nevadahealthlink.com/reporting-life-and-income-changes/
Individuals
What happens if I miss the open enrollment deadline?
Certain changes in an individual’s life can make them eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) and allow them to enroll at any time during the year. Examples of qualifying life events include: loss of employer-based coverage, moving, turning 26, and changes in family size through marriage, divorce or the birth of a child. Learn more: https://www.nevadahealthlink.com/reporting-life-and-income-changes/
Can I get a tax subsidy to help pay for my short term health insurance plan?
No. Short-term plans do not qualify for tax subsidies under the Affordable Care Act.
Does short term health insurance provide coverage for preexisting conditions?
No. In most cases short term limited duration plans do not cover preexisting conditions.
When should I consider short-term health insurance?
Short-term medical insurance, also called Temporary health insurance or Term health insurance, can provide a temporary solution to help fill gaps in coverage. Consider short-term if you’re:
• Between jobs • Waiting for other coverage to begin • Waiting to be eligible for Medicare coverage • Without health insurance, outside of Open Enrollment
I have heard the individual mandate was repealed, am I still required to have health insurance? Is there still a tax penalty?
Yes, the individual health mandate, or the shared responsibility payment, through the Affordable Care Act was repealed, and the payment no longer applies, putting the tax penalty at $0 for those individuals who do not have health insurance. There is no longer a tax penalty for those people who do not have health insurance. This means you will not be charged when you file your state taxes and you will not owe a fee on your federal tax return.
Can my family or I still get financial assistance if I have insurance through my employer?
Yes, you may still qualify for financial assistance through Nevada Health Link if your employer’s plan is considered unaffordable. If the premium for your employer’s plan costs 9.02% or more of your household income, you may be eligible for help. Additionally, if your insurance is affordable for you but not for your family, they could qualify for subsidies through Nevada Health Link.
Work with a licensed enrollment professional near you to discover your options.
What is considered annual household income?
For purposes of the premium tax credit, your household income is your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) plus that of every other individual in your family for whom you can properly claim a personal exemption deduction and who is required to file a federal income tax return. Modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is the adjusted gross income on your federal income tax return plus any excluded foreign income, nontaxable Social Security benefits (including tier 1 railroad retirement benefits), and tax-exempt interest received or accrued during the taxable year. It does not include Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
I have submitted my application through Nevada Health Link, how do I make a payment? Should I wait for the bill from the insurance carrier?
Once you enroll in a health or dental plan, you will pay your premiums directly to the insurance carrier — not to Nevada Health Link.
After you finish your enrollment, you must pay your first month’s premium in order for your coverage to take effect. Health and dental plans are usually offered by separate carriers and billed separately. Be sure to pay for both if applicable.
Many carriers accept online payments. To see if your carrier accepts online payments, log into your account and click the Enrollments tab to see the plan(s) you've enrolled in. If your carrier accepts online payments, you'll see a payment button that links to your carrier's payment site. If your carrier does not accept online payments, contact your carrier or visit their website to get more information about their payment process.
I forgot my username and/or password and am unable to access my account.
Your log-on information is required to access your account.
If you forget the password to your Nevada Health Link account, you have the ability to reset it.
- Go to the Nevada Health Link website and click on Log In. Click on the Forgot Password? link.
- Enter the email address associated with your NVHL account and click Continue
- Follow the directions in your email to access your account. Be sure that you know the answer to the security question you selected when you created the account. You will be asked to provide this answer. Note: If not, you will have to contact Tech Support to get back into your account.
What are federal tax subsidies or premium tax credits?
A premium tax credit, sometimes called subsidies or discounts, can be used to lower your monthly insurance payment (called your “premium”) when you enroll in a health insurance plan through Nevada Health Link. Your tax credit is based on the income estimate and household information you put on your Marketplace application.
If your estimated income falls between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level (FPL) for your household size, you qualify for a premium tax credit.
If you were enrolled in a health plan through the Marketplace and used premium tax credits to lower your monthly payments. (Premium tax credits are sometimes called "subsidies," "discounts," or "savings.")
Will I need my tribal documents when applying for coverage?
You must be able to verify that you are a member of a federally recognized tribe, Band, Pueblo or Rancheria, or shareholder in an Alaska Native Corporation in order to be eligible for special benefits available to AI/ANs.
- A document issued by a federally recognized tribe indicating tribal membership.
- A document issued by an Alaska Native village/tribe, or an ANCSA Corporation (regional or village) indicating shareholder status.
My children and I are tribal members, but my spouse is not. Can we enroll as a family with a Special Enrollment Period?
If one family member on the application is eligible for the Special Enrollment Period (SEP), all family members who apply on the same Marketplace application are eligible. This is true even if different family members are eligible for different Marketplace plans, based on differing eligibility for lower monthly premiums or out-of-pocket costs.
What American Indian and Alaska Native income do I include on my application?
The Marketplace application asks you to provide income information that’s reportable on your federal income tax return. In general, you won’t report American Indian or Alaska Native (AI/AN) income that the IRS exempts from tax (income from treaty fishing rights, for example).
The Marketplace application will ask you to report income from various sources and will determine your eligibility for Marketplace insurance plans, Medicaid, and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Most AI/AN trust income and resources aren’t counted when determining eligibility for these programs. But per capita income derived from gaming is taxable and therefore counted for these programs.
Why do I need health insurance coverage if I get services from the Indian Health Service, a tribal program, or an urban Indian health program?
By enrolling in health coverage through the Marketplace, Medicaid, or CHIP, you have better access to services that the Indian Health Service, tribal programs, or urban Indian programs (known as I/T/Us) may not provide.
If you enroll in a Marketplace health plan, Medicaid, or CHIP, you can keep getting services from your I/T/U the same way you do now. When you get services from an I/T/U, the I/T/U can bill your insurance program. This benefits the tribal community, allowing I/T/Us to provide more services to others.
What is Nevada Health Link?
Nevada Health Link is the state's official health insurance marketplace where Nevadans can shop for and enroll in health insurance plans. It helps individuals and families find affordable health coverage, and it’s the only place where you can apply for financial assistance, like subsidies, to lower the cost of your insurance. Nevada Health Link offers a variety of plans from private insurers, and it’s the way to get coverage that meets the requirements of the Affordable Care Act.
The Nevada Health Link website was created by the state agency, the Silver State Health Insurance Exchange.
Is Nevada Health Link enroll.nevadahealthlink.com?
Yes! Enroll.NevadaHealthLink.com is Nevada Health Link's online platform where Nevadans can shop, compare and enroll in Qualified Health Plans.
How does Nevada Health Link work? Is this Obamacare?
The Nevada Health Link enrollment platform is powered by the technology platform, GetInsured, which is the state based exchange (SBE) platform where eligibility and enrollment takes place. All of the plans offered are certified by Nevada Health Link, but enrollment will take place through https://enroll.nevadahealthlink.com/hix/. Nevada Health Link is the only health insurance resource that can provide individuals with financial assistance (federal tax credits and subsidies) to help cover the cost of insurance. Plus, Nevada provides its citizens with many ways to obtain free in-person assistance throughout the State.
Nevada Health Link is supported by the state agency, Silver State Health Insurance Exchange and was established due to the Affordable Care Act, sometimes referred to as Obamacare.
What do military veterans need to know?
If you're a veteran without VA health care, visit the VA health care website. You may learn that you qualify for VA coverage.
If you don't have veterans coverage
If you're a veteran who isn't enrolled in VA benefits or other veterans health coverage, you can get coverage through Nevada Health Link. Depending on your household size and income, you may be able to get lower costs on monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs on private insurance. You also might qualify for free or low-cost coverage through Medicaid or Nevada Check Up. Find out if you qualify for Medicaid.If your dependents aren't covered
If you're a veteran enrolled in (or are a beneficiary of) a VA health care program, you may have dependents who aren't eligible for a VA health care program. They can get coverage through Nevada Health Link. Depending on household size and income, they may get lower costs on monthly premiums or out-of-pocket costs. Or they could be eligible for free or low-cost coverage through Medicaid or Nevada Check Up. Find out if you qualify for Medicaid.Important: TRICARE's young adult coverage option is different from the Affordable Care Act's under-26 rules. Eligibility ages, benefits, and other details differ.
How do I calculate my income?
When you fill out a health insurance application, you'll need to estimate your expected income. Two important things to know:
- Nevada Health Link savings are based on your expected household income for the year you want coverage, not last year's income
- Income is counted for you, your spouse, and everyone you'll claim as a tax dependent on your federal tax return (if the dependents are required to file). Include their income even if they don't need health coverage
Step 1.
Start with your household's adjusted gross income (AGI) from your most recent federal income tax return. You'll find your AGI on line 7 of your last year's IRS Form 1040.Step 2.
Add the following kinds of income, if you have any, to your AGI:- Tax-exempt foreign income
- Tax-exempt Social Security benefits (including tier 1 railroad retirement benefits)
- Tax-exempt interest
Step 3.
Adjust your estimate for any changes you expect. Consider things like these for all members of your household:- Expected raises
- New jobs or other employment changes, including changes to work schedule or self-employment income
- Changes to income from other sources, like Social Security or investments
- Changes in your household, like gaining or losing dependents. Gaining or losing a dependent can have a big impact on your savings.
What are the Special Provisions for Native Americans?
Health Coverage for American Indians and Alaska Natives:
- Native Americans who are members of a federally recognized tribe are exempt from the individual mandate.
- Native Americans who earn less than 300% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) are exempt from cost sharing; for example, they will not have to pay copayments or deductibles when they use medical services.
- There are special provisions for the calculation of Modified Adjusted Gross Income for Native Americans, meaning that some revenue earned on reservations and from Federal Trust payments are exempt.
- Native Americans can enroll in or change Qualified Health Plans (QHPs) once per month, and they are not bound to the open enrollment dates
Can I buy a Qualified Health Plan (QHP) outside of Nevada Health Link?
Yes, insurance carriers that offer Qualified Health Plans (QHPs) on NevadaHealthLink.com may offer the exact same (or similar) product outside of Nevada Health Link. But, you must enroll through Nevada Health Link if you want to receive help with your premium in the form of an Advanced Premium Tax credit (APTC).
Why should I buy insurance through NevadaHealthLink.com?
Buying insurance through Nevada Health Link guarantees that you are enrolled in a Qualified Health Plan (QHP) with all the Essential Health Benefits included.
All information about the plans offered through Nevada Health Link will be presented in clear language, so there’s no guesswork about what’s covered or what it costs. Because Nevada Health Link offers a variety of plans from different private insurance companies, we don’t have any connection with one insurance carrier. This means that all of the information about the plans is presented objectively, so you can pick the plan that’s right for you.
Nevada Health Link is the only place that you can receive cost assistance in the form of an Advanced Premium Tax credit (APTC) or Cost Sharing Reductions (CSRs).
Help with Insurance Terms
For help with any words and terms, click here to see our glossary.
What if I qualify for a public health insurance program like Medicaid?
If you or someone in your family appears to qualify for government health coverage programs such as Medicaid or Nevada Check Up (CHIP), through our pre-screener tool, Nevada Health Link will alert you during the screening process and direct you to the right place to enroll in those programs if you wish.
What if I need help or can't enroll online on my own?
Nevada Health Link partners with a statewide network of licensed enrollment professionals who have been trained to assist you with the application and enrollment process, and their assistance is available to you at no cost. After enrolling, your assister can continue helping you throughout the year by reporting changes to your account, helping you understand important notices, walking you through the annual renewal process, and more.
Find a licensed enrollment professionals near you by using our Find Local Assistance look-up tool or by calling 800-547-2927.
How do I enroll?
The first step of the enrollment process is to visit https://enroll.nevadahealthlink.com/hix/ provide some basic information about your income and household composition by answering a few questions using our exchange eligibility pre-screener tool. If the tool identifies potential Medicaid/CHIP eligibility, then you will be directed to submit a Medicaid application.
Or get FREE enrollment assistance from a licensed enrollment professionals near you by using our Find Local Assistance look-up tool or by calling 800-547-2927.
Who can use Nevada Health Link?
Nevada Health Link facilitates and connects eligible Nevadans who are not insured by their employer, Medicaid, or Medicare to health insurance options. Individuals can purchase Affordable Care Act certified Qualified Health Plans through the Exchange and if eligible, can receive subsidy assistance to help offset their monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
The only requirement to apply for and purchase insurance on NevadaHealthLink.com is that you are lawfully present in the U.S. and living in the State of Nevada. Filling out an application will not trigger an immigration/ INS investigation. This program’s goal is simply to reduce the cost of health insurance and insure more Nevadans.
Why do I need insurance?
Health insurance helps you get the care you need, when you need it. Insurance will help keep you and your family healthy. If you have insurance, you’ll be able to get preventive care (such as regular check-ups, screenings and immunizations) so you and your family will be sick less often. Health insurance also protects you financially; you won’t have to worry about high medical bills you can’t pay.
Additionally, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), a U.S. law, says everyone must have health insurance. If someone doesn’t have health insurance, he or she will incur a penalty (a fine) on his or her income taxes. Nevada Health Link is here to protect Nevadans from the tax penalty by helping them find insurance based on their budget.
What is insurance?
Insurance is legal entitlement to payment or reimbursement for your health care costs, generally under a contract with a health insurance company, a group health plan offered in connection with employment, or a government program like Medicare, Medicaid, or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Partners
What is Nevada Health Link?
Nevada Health Link is the state's official health insurance marketplace where Nevadans can shop for and enroll in health insurance plans. It helps individuals and families find affordable health coverage, and it’s the only place where you can apply for financial assistance, like subsidies, to lower the cost of your insurance. Nevada Health Link offers a variety of plans from private insurers, and it’s the way to get coverage that meets the requirements of the Affordable Care Act.
The Nevada Health Link website was created by the state agency, the Silver State Health Insurance Exchange.
Is Nevada Health Link enroll.nevadahealthlink.com?
Yes! Enroll.NevadaHealthLink.com is Nevada Health Link's online platform where Nevadans can shop, compare and enroll in Qualified Health Plans.
How does Nevada Health Link work? Is this Obamacare?
The Nevada Health Link enrollment platform is powered by the technology platform, GetInsured, which is the state based exchange (SBE) platform where eligibility and enrollment takes place. All of the plans offered are certified by Nevada Health Link, but enrollment will take place through https://enroll.nevadahealthlink.com/hix/. Nevada Health Link is the only health insurance resource that can provide individuals with financial assistance (federal tax credits and subsidies) to help cover the cost of insurance. Plus, Nevada provides its citizens with many ways to obtain free in-person assistance throughout the State.
Nevada Health Link is supported by the state agency, Silver State Health Insurance Exchange and was established due to the Affordable Care Act, sometimes referred to as Obamacare.
How do I become a Certified Enrollment Counselor, Navigator, Enrollment Facilitator, or CAC?
Certified Enrollment Counselors, which encompass: Exchange Enrollment Facilitators (EEFs), Navigators, Certified Application Counselors, and In Person Assisters will facilitate enrollment in qualified health plans offered by the Exchange. CECs, Navigators and EEFs are hired by entities that have been awarded grants by the Exchange.
The Exchange releases a Request for Application (RFA) to award Navigator and In Person Assisters in the beginning of each year. If you have interest in becoming a Navigator, you will need to respond to the RFA. If you'd like to become an Enrollment Assister, please contact our current entities HERE. If you have interest in serving as a Certified Enrollment Conselor, you will need to be certified by the Nevada Division of Insurance prior to becoming appointed with the Exchange.
How do I calculate my income?
When you fill out a health insurance application, you'll need to estimate your expected income. Two important things to know:
- Nevada Health Link savings are based on your expected household income for the year you want coverage, not last year's income
- Income is counted for you, your spouse, and everyone you'll claim as a tax dependent on your federal tax return (if the dependents are required to file). Include their income even if they don't need health coverage
Step 1.
Start with your household's adjusted gross income (AGI) from your most recent federal income tax return. You'll find your AGI on line 7 of your last year's IRS Form 1040.Step 2.
Add the following kinds of income, if you have any, to your AGI:- Tax-exempt foreign income
- Tax-exempt Social Security benefits (including tier 1 railroad retirement benefits)
- Tax-exempt interest
Step 3.
Adjust your estimate for any changes you expect. Consider things like these for all members of your household:- Expected raises
- New jobs or other employment changes, including changes to work schedule or self-employment income
- Changes to income from other sources, like Social Security or investments
- Changes in your household, like gaining or losing dependents. Gaining or losing a dependent can have a big impact on your savings.
Some questions you might hear
Click here to see some FAQs you might get from your clients.
Will people be able to enroll in non-insurance government programs through Nevada Health Link?
No, Nevada Health link will not be able to pre-populate applications for non-insurance government programs such as SNAP or TANF; however, by applying through Access Nevada for Medicaid or Nevada Checkup, that system will also determine eligibility for SNAP and TANF.
Are you able to enroll in government insurance programs through Nevada Health Link?
No, but after a person has filled out application pre-screener on enroll.NevadaHealthLink.com, we will be able to determine if that individual or a family member appears to be eligible for a government program, such as Nevada Check Up (CHIP) or Medicaid. If one person in the family qualifies for Medicaid, their application will be transferred over to Medicaid and the rest of the family will be able to enroll in a health insurance plan or plans through Nevada Health Link.
State Based Exchange Transition
Will Agents/Brokers be able to enroll consumers in a plan with a carrier for which they are not appointed?
Yes, Agents/Brokers will be able to enroll consumers in a plan with any carrier selling qualified health plans (QHPs) and stand alone dental plans (SADP) on the GetInsured system.
Will Agents/Brokers and EEFs be able to assist consumers by phone similar to how they can through web-brokers?
This question could have multiple answers depending on the intent, but in best trying to answer this we wanted to point out that consumers can access their accounts and applications via the web portal, and agents can access the accounts and applications of their clients via the web portal. What is not available (and currently not supported by any state based exchange (SBM) is the ability for web brokers to build their own front-end experiences using web service APIs made available by the Exchange.
Is there a direct line for agents/brokers and enrollment professionals?
Yes, we have a Broker Support line. Call 1-800-547-8156, Monday through Friday: 9:00am-5:00pm PST
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