White House extends deadline for penalty-free sign-ups until March 31 amid web problems

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration says it’s granting a six-week extension until March 31 for Americans to sign up for coverage next year and avoid new tax penalties under the president’s health care overhaul law.

Monday’s move had been expected since White House spokesman Jay Carney promised quick action last week to resolve a “disconnect” in the implementation of the law. Technical problems continue to trouble the website that’s supposed to be the main enrolment vehicle for people who don’t get health care at work.

Under the new policy, people who sign up by the end of open enrolment season won’t face a penalty.

Previously you had to sign up by the middle of February, so your coverage would take effect March 1.

The extension is for 2014 only.