The 2016 open enrollment season has begun. Through January 31, 2016, you can apply for a 2016 health plan, renew your current plan, or pick a new plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

This is important news for all Americans, including those who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). On average, LGBT Americans experience greater exposure to violence and homelessness, as well as higher rates of poverty, HIV infection, tobacco and substance use, mental health disorders, and cancer. These disparities are even more pronounced for LGBT individuals who are also members of racial and ethnic minorities and have low incomes.

These health disparities are due in part to lower rates of health coverage. Now, thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), LGBT Americans have increased access to quality, affordable health insurance.

Visit HealthCare.gov to enroll in a new plan, change your current plan, and get answers about the ACA.

Learn More about the ACA and LGBT Americans

• See HHS.gov’s LGBT Health and Well-being: The Affordable Care Act to learn how the ACA helps LGBT individuals and families.

• Read WhiteHouse.gov’s The Affordable Care Act Helps LGBT Americans to learn about the substantial benefits the ACA affords those who identify as LGBT.

• Download SAMHSA.gov’s Affordable Care Act Enrollment Assistance for LGBT Americans: A Resource for Behavioral Health Providers to learn how behavioral health providers can promote enrollment to their LGBT patients.

• View Outreach and Enrollment for LGBT Individuals: Promising Practices from the Field, an HHS report on promising practices to successfully enroll this underserved population.

• Visit Out2EnrollExit Disclaimer, a coalition of organizations helping LGBT people stay healthy through access to affordable, comprehensive health insurance coverage.