ST. PAUL — Some Minnesotans eligible for private insurance plans through the MNsure health care exchange may qualify for retroactive coverage, credits or cost-sharing reductions.

Two categories of people are eligible. The first is consumers who have not had continuous coverage since Jan. 1 and unsuccessfully attempted to enroll. MNsure says they may qualify for retroactive coverage as far back as Jan. 1 depending on the date they first attempted to sign up. They must pay the back premiums.

The other category is people who enrolled in qualifying individual market private health plans directly from an insurer, but are eligible for tax credits or cost-sharing reductions because of their incomes.

MNsure says Minnesotans who believe they fall into either category should contact the exchange at 1-855-366-7873 by May 15 to start the process.