How to Approach the Obamacare Marketplace: 2014 Edition

By Lacie Glover, November 6, 2014

Millions of Americans are about to enter the second annual open enrollment period under the Affordable Care Act, commonly known as Obamacare. While many will be using a public insurance exchange for the first time, others will return to switch or renew policies. Renewing should be easy, consisting of logging in and updating your personal information, because you have already made the major decisions.

Those entering the marketplace to downgrade, upgrade or buy insurance for the first time will have to give it a little more thought. In addition to the expected complications of switching health insurance, the Department of Health and Human Services reports that consumers will have 25 percent more options this year.

But that’s not the only thing that’s changed. Consumers, doctors and insurance agents have all learned a lot over the past year. If you’re getting into the health insurance marketplace for the first time, here’s what’s important to know.