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Important Message: Open Enrollment continues! Enroll in a new health plan or change plans by January 15, 2025. Coverage starts February 1, 2025.

Qualified Health Plans

Vermont Health Connect offers qualified health plans (QHP) to Vermonters. Qualified health plans are certified by Vermont Health Connect but are managed by private insurance companies—including Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont and MVP Health Care.

Under the Affordable Care Act, qualified health plans must offer essential health benefits. Eligible Vermonters who are enrolled in a qualified health plan can get financial help through Vermont Health Connect. Vermont insurance companies may offer health plans that are almost the same as Vermont Health Connect QHPs—the main difference is that you can’t get financial help if you enroll directly with your insurance company. To get financial help paying for coverage, Vermonters must enroll in a qualified health plan through Vermont Health Connect.  

Not sure if you’re eligible for financial help paying for a qualified health plan? The Plan Comparison Tool can help! This quick, easy tool will give you an eligibility estimate.

Health Insurance Basics

You must apply for a QHP during an enrollment period:

  • Open Enrollment runs from November 1 through January 15. Any eligible Vermonter can get a QHP at this time.
  • At other times of year, Vermonters must have a Special Enrollment Period to get a QHP. If you have a major life event, like getting married, you could get a Special Enrollment Period.

How to Apply