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A new report released by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) finds that in Georgia, consumers will see increased competition in the Health Insurance Marketplace, leading to new and affordable choices for consumers. According to the report, Georgians will be able to choose from an average of 50 health plans in the Marketplace. Premiums nationwide will also be around 16 percent lower than originally expected before taking financial assistance into account.

“I am pleased to hear that the Georgia Marketplace will offer lower premiums than originally projected,” said Congressman David Scott. “Consumers have often been denied or priced-out of quality health insurance options, but thanks to the Affordable Care Act, new affordable coverage options are affordable.”

Starting October 1, the new Marketplace will be open for millions of Americans to purchase health insurance coverage in one place. Consumers will be able to find out whether they qualify for premium assistance and compare plans side-by-side based on pricing, quality and benefit levels. No one can be denied coverage because of a preexisting condition. The new insurance coverage begins as early as January 1, 2014.

Georgians will have an average of 50 qualified health plan choices. Plans in the Marketplace will be categorized as either “gold,” “silver,” or “bronze.” Young adults will also have the added option of purchasing a “catastrophic” plan. In Georgia, the average premium for the lowest-cost silver plan will be $304 and for the lowest cost bronze plan it will be $265.

Premium and plan options are broken down by state where information is available. For example, the report shows that a 27-year old living in Georgia who makes $25,000 per year will pay $103 per month for the lowest cost bronze plan and $145 per month for the second lowest cost silver plan, taking tax credits into account. For a family of four in Georgia with an income of $50,000 per year, the lowest bronze plan would cost only $132 per month.

In metro Atlanta, a 27-year old who makes $25,000 per year will pay $105 per month for the lowest cost bronze plan and $145 per month for the second lowest cost silver plan, taking into account tax credits. For a family of four in metro Atlanta with an income of $50,000 per year, the lowest bronze plan would cost only $138 per month. And Atlanta-area consumers will be able to choose from among 68 qualified health plans.

Consumers can get help finding Marketplace coverage through a number of different resources. They can get more information through www.HealthCare.gov or they can call 1-800-318-2596 toll free (TTY: 1-855-889-4325) to speak with a trained customer service representative.

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