Signing Up For MNsure? Deadline For Jan. 1 Coverage Is Midnight Thursday

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – If you're signing up for health insurance through MNsure and you're looking for coverage starting Jan. 1, 2017, you have just a few days to enroll.

MNsure officials said Monday that those purchasing insurance through the online marketplace have until midnight Thursday to do so to ensure coverage starting Jan. 1 of 2017. MNsure CEO Allison O-Toole says it's important to complete your enrollment as soon as possible to have access to the widest range of health plans available.

O'Toole said current customers can renew or change their plan during the open enrollment period. Those who are satisfied with their current coverage will have it renew automatically if it's available.

MNsure officials said they have extended hours for their Contact Center this week as the Thursday deadline approaches. It will be open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, and 8 a.m. to the midnight deadline on Thursday.

Minnesotans who don't enroll by the Thursday deadline will have until Jan. 31, 2017, to secure 2017 coverage. Those who enroll by Dec. 31 will have coverage that starts Feb. 1, and those who sign up by Jan. 31 will have coverage starting March 1.

MNsure officials said since the start of open enrollment, more than 41,000 customers have signed up.