The deadline to enroll in the Health Insurance Marketplace is December 15. Those who meet the deadline and pay their first premium will receive coverage by January 1, 2018.

Nearly 9,000 Delaware residents had signed up through the exchange as of earlier this month. For 2017, more than 27,000 people enrolled for coverage.

“We urge Delawareans who need health insurance coverage through the marketplace to have a sense of urgency in signing up,” Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) Secretary Dr. Kara Odom Walker said. “This enrollment season, the final deadline of Dec. 15 is six weeks earlier than last year’s deadline. Now is the time to shop and enroll on HealthCare.gov or to talk with a marketplace enrollment assister or insurance agent or broker about your coverage options.”

About 81 percent of enrollees last year received tax credits against their health care premiums.

“Many people don’t realize that they may be eligible for tax credits to help pay their monthly premiums,” Walker said. “If you are uncertain about your eligibility based on your annual household income, it’s best to contact a local enrollment assister to help walk you through the process.”

Delawareans can sign up for coverage at www.HealthCare.gov or by calling 1-800-318-2596 (TTY: 1-855-889-4325).