www.Ups tatePhys i c i ansSC . com | www.Hea l thL i nksUps tate. com | 45 SOME SURPRISING ACA BENEFITS They also can get an estimate of how much they’ll save before they apply. The subsidies work on a sliding scale, so families with lower earnings would be eligible to save more. According to the calculator at HealthCare.gov, an eligible family of four earning $80,000 in Charleston County could receive an $800 tax credit, which means they could choose a plan costing them $100 a month. Because elements of each plan can vary extensively, depending on which providers are in the network, average cost of visits and deductible amounts, navigators encourage individuals and families to carefully consider their options. While sign up can feel overwhelming, South Carolina has organizations at the ready. The Palmetto Project is a nonprofit committed to helping South Carolinians access quality, affordable care. Sonia Donnelly, associate director of programs, said her organization partners with other groups, including the hospital association, libraries and other nonprofits to remind residents that there is help available, either in person or by phone. “Awareness of options for lower-cost plans is especially low if [individuals] have been covered through their employer previously,” Donnelly added. The sign-up period for ACA runs from Nov. 1, 2022, until Jan. 15, 2023. Bates and Christian, with Rural Health Services, expect “there will be more insurance carriers [participating] this year, which means there will be more options for plans for consumers.” During the rest of the year, residents may also be eligible to enroll if they experience a life event, such as getting married or having a child. To find free assistance throughout the state, search within your ZIP code at HealthCare.gov or GetCoveredAmerica.org, or call 800-318-2596 for assistance. By Lisa Wack
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