On Tuesday, November 1, the Open Enrollment period for health insurance began nationwide. With a record amount of grant funding released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, many individuals and families could be eligible for free assistance and lower-cost coverage if they enroll through Marketplace before January 15 of next year.

Iowa Navigator, a non-profit program that offers assistance for Iowa residents enrolling for health insurance, is expanding after $295,350 was awarded to First Choice Services (FCS). FCS works to promote general well-being and facilitate access to health services. This expansion will provide free-assistance to individuals selecting health care options through Marketplace.

Last year, a record number of people enrolled through Marketplace, with 9 in 10 Iowans who did so eligible for a monthly subsidy to help cover the cost of their respective plan. For information on the Iowa Navigator program, call 515-978-9570, or visit acanavigator.com.