Federally Facilitated Marketplace

Federally Facilitated Marketplace (FFM) is a service provided by the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to assist individuals and small businesses in purchasing health insurance coverage. The FFM is a key component of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), enacted in 2010.

Overview

The FFM, also known as the Health Insurance Marketplace, or simply the Marketplace, is an online platform where individuals, families, and small businesses can compare and purchase health insurance plans. The Marketplace is designed to serve individuals who are not covered by employer-sponsored health insurance, Medicaid, or Medicare.

Operation

The FFM is operated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), a division of the HHS. The CMS is responsible for the certification of health plans offered on the Marketplace, as well as the determination of eligibility for health coverage, premium tax credits, and cost-sharing reductions.

Enrollment

Enrollment in health plans through the FFM is available during an annual open enrollment period. Outside of this period, enrollment is only possible through a special enrollment period triggered by certain life events, such as marriage, birth of a child, or loss of other health coverage.

Health Plans

Health plans offered through the FFM are categorized into four "metal" levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. These categories are based on the percentage of health care costs the plans cover.

See Also

• Health insurance in the United States
• Healthcare.gov
• Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act

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