Tuesday is the final day for Michiganders who need health insurance to purchase a health plan on the Health Insurance Marketplace via the Affordable Health Act (ACA) or Obamacare.

“Every Michigander deserves access to affordable, comprehensive health care, and that is why it is so important for Michiganders who need health insurance for 2024 to buy a health plan before the January 16 deadline,” said Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “Now is the time for Michiganders to take advantage of free, local help, newly streamlined plan options, and available savings that can help lower the cost of health insurance. Our administration will continue to work with anyone to help reduce costs for Michigan families while we build a healthier Michigan where families can thrive.”

The open enrollment deadline, which is normally Jan. 15, was extended by a day to accommodate the observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, giving consumers an extra day to select from the 169 available plans. 

Those who are able to sign up for coverage by 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, will get coverage beginning on Feb. 1. 

“The biggest mistake you could make is to wait and miss the deadline, as you may not have another chance to enroll in or change your health plan for the year,” said Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services Director Anita Fox. “By applying on HealthCare.gov and selecting a plan before the deadline, you can make sure you are getting all the benefits and savings to which you are entitled while protecting yourself with high quality, affordable health insurance that works for you, your family, and your budget.”

Those who get married, have a baby or lose health coverage after the deadline may still qualify to get coverage through a Special Enrollment Period.

According to the most recent enrollment data provided by the federal government, more than 394,000 Michiganders have already enrolled during this year’s marketplace open enrollment period, an increase of almost 25% over this time last year. For 2023, more than 85% of enrollees qualified for savings, with many consumers able to get health insurance for less than $10 per month.