The deadline for enrolling in health care coverage that begins Jan. 1 through Access Health CT, the state’s online health insurance marketplace, has been moved to Saturday at midnight.

The original deadline was Thursday. The deadline was moved due to high demand for enrollment, Access Health CT said in a news release.

"Our highest priority is ensuring that our residents have health care coverage," said Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman. "This extension means more people are covered for Jan. 1, and that means more people have access to the care and treatment they need to live healthy, productive lives."

Jim Wadleigh, chief executive officer of Access Health CT, thanked insurance carriers for helping to respond to the high demand and needs of customers.

“This gives people the opportunity to understand their options as to what financial assistance may be available to help lower the costs of the plans or deductibles. Many of our customers qualify for subsidies that dramatically reduce the cost of insurance," he said.

Over the past seven days (compared with the same time last year), Access Health CT's call volume increased 22 percent and web traffic is up 30 percent, the organization said. In relation to this time in 2015, new customer enrollment for Qualified Health Plans is trending 12 percent higher than last year, the news release said. Overall enrollment is up more than 3 percent.

Customers are encouraged to prepare as much as possible before enrolling, including gathering documents and reviewing their options. The following documents or information is needed to enroll in a health insurance plan through the website, www.AccessHealthCT.com: Social Security number; visa, green card or other immigration documents; most recent tax return; employer information including offers of employer sponsored coverage; and information on current insurance coverage.

Enrollment centers are located at 200 Main St. in New Britain, and 55 Church St. in New Haven. Call centers can be reached at (855) 805-4325.

Access Health CT reminded customers who enroll in health care coverage can avoid a potential tax penalty of $695 or 2.5 percent of their household income and may be eligible for financial help.