January 7th, 2026 by WCBC Radio

Public officials joined health advocates this week to encourage Marylanders to pursue healthcare coverage. A new system designed to connect those searching for coverage will be part of the Maryland income tax forms this season. State Comptroller Brooke Lierman explains the program is open to all taxpayers…

   

“Marylanders who want health insurance for 2026, including those who miss the January 15th open enrollment deadline – they simply, when they file their tax return, need to check the box to say that they are interested in connected with the Maryland Health Connection.”

Lierman said the health connection has ways to save Marylanders money, despite the absence of federal healthcare tax credits…

   

“A 30-year old, making $39,000 a year, might have to pay $275 a month for health insurance. But now, maybe they checked the box, they got that information, but with Maryland premium assistance, that number – 275, could drop to $121.”