Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department will help all county residents who qualify get health coverage under the Affordable Care Act. The most recent deadline to sign up for coverage was Jan. 31, but some people may qualify for special enrollment.

Under the law, some people can change their coverage outside open enrollment periods within 60 days of a qualifying life event. Some examples of qualifying life events are marriage, birth of a child, adoption, divorce, loss of health coverage, change in income, or relocation to Washington.

If you are unsure if you qualify for special enrollment or need help signing up for insurance, Navigators can help you. They help people complete applications, review health plan options, and determine eligibility for financial assistance that may reduce the cost of coverage. Some people may be eligible for free health care coverage. About 85% of applicants are eligible for financial assistance. To contact a Navigator, call (253) 798-3481 or email navigator@tpchd.org. People can also sign up for coverage through our web site.

Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department is one of the state’s nine lead organizations to provide in-person assistance as part of the Washington Healthplanfinder customer support network. Lead organizations include public health agencies, regional health networks, and other community organizations. The Health Department’s efforts will provide impartial information to residents to help determine which health insurance options best fits their needs. These efforts may take place through in-person meetings, online communications, and over the phone.