The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance announced on Oct. 14 that it will provide about $5.17 million to 33 community organizations that help residents enroll in health insurance. The enrollment period for 2027 plans runs from Nov. 1 through Jan. 31, 2027.
The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance (DOBI) announced on Oct. 14 that it will provide a total of $5,171,000 to 33 community organizations that help residents use Get Covered New Jersey, the state's official health insurance marketplace. The open enrollment period for 2027 plans runs from Nov. 1 through Jan. 31, 2027.
The organizations receiving the funding are "navigator" groups that provide free help with enrolling in coverage, renewing plans and applying for financial assistance. Five of them were newly selected this year. Assistance is available in person and remotely, in more than 10 languages, across all 21 counties. Korean Community Services, which serves the Korean American community, was allocated $144,000.
In addition to navigators, certified application counselors (CACs) and insurance brokers who have completed state training and certification also help people enroll. Enrollment information and a search tool for assistance organizations are available at GetCovered.NJ.gov. Outside the enrollment period, residents can sign up only after a major life change, such as marriage, a move, childbirth or pregnancy, loss of eligibility for NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid/CHIP), or loss of employer-sponsored coverage.
Among the organizations receiving the largest amounts are Family Service Center ($540,000), New Jersey Citizen Action Education Fund ($430,000), Lakewood Resource and Referral Center ($422,000) and Health Research and Educational Trust ($450,000). South Jersey Family Medical Centers, Urban League of Hudson County and the Newark Department of Health and Community Wellness are also included. Susan Ox, acting commissioner of DOBI, said, "Supporting New Jersey residents in their communities is more important than ever."