Questions and answers on MNsure

About the MNsure exchange

Minnesota is one of 16 states plus the District of Columbia building their own insurance exchanges. Minnesota's exchange, MNsure, will be a new competitive marketplace under the federal health law where people can shop for insurance. Some key elements:

• It will be used by those covered by state programs, such as Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare, plus individuals who aren't covered at work and small businesses with fewer than 50 full-time employees.

• Open enrollment begins Oct. 1, but individuals have until March 31 to buy insurance or face penalties.

• People can access the MNsure exchange through a website or the phone. Brokers and other experts throughout the state will be trained to sign people up for coverage at community centers and other gathering places.