Updated: 2020-07-10 by
To sign up for a health plan under the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) you can go directly to the online health insurance marketplace for the District of Columbia. If you need personalized help, you can reach out to one of the many types of enrollment assistants working remotely during the COVID-19 crisis.
For 2021 health plans, the District of Columbia open enrollment runs from November 1 until January 31, 2021. If you enroll by December 15, your coverage will begin on January 1, 2021.
If you still need coverage for 2020, you can get covered for the rest of the year because of D.C.'s extended special enrollment period for the Covid-19 pandemic.
Where's the District of Columbia Health Care Exchange?
You can find the health insurance exchange for the District of Columbia at DC Health Link. This is where you can learn about the various health insurance options available to you under Obamacare. If you see a plan you like, you'll be guided through the enrollment process online.
Getting Personalized Help with Enrollment
In the District of Columbia, if you need help understanding your options for coverage under Obamacare or signing up for a plan, you can get free assistance from a certified enrollment assistant or from a licensed health insurance agent or broker.
An enrollment assistant can explain your options, answer your questions, and help you apply for the plan you choose -- but they can't recommend a specific plan for you.
To find a District of Columbia certified assistant, use the Get Free Expert Help page at DC Health Link. From there you can enter your location to find helpers near you.
Private insurance agents or brokers can also help you understand your health care coverage options under Obamacare. Unlike government-trained assistants, they are allowed to suggest the best plan for you.
To directly connect with a the District of Columbia insurance broker who can help you evaluate insurance plans and choose a plan that's appropriate for your situation, call 800-943-6832. (We receive advertising income from the licensed brokers who offer their services through this telephone number.)
Getting Help by Phone
If you want answers over the phone, call the toll-free number for DC Health Link at 855-532-5465. If you are hearing impaired, please call the TTY line: 711-1-532-5465.
Connect on Social Media
You can find DC Health Link on Facebook, Twitter, or YouTube.
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How an Insurance Agent or Broker Can Help You Sign Up for Obamacare in the District of Columbia
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What Happens If I Missed the District of Columbia Obamacare Enrollment Deadline for 2021?
If you missed the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) deadline in District of Columbia, you may still be able to get covered.
About Shae Irving
Shae Irving has been writing for Legal Consumer since 2013, focusing on health care and family law. She was a senior legal editor and editorial project manager at Nolo, where she worked for twenty-two years. Shae has degrees in rhetoric and law from U.C. Berkeley. 
