Health care coverage is now required under the Affordable Care Act, also known as “Obamacare.” If you do not have coverage, the IRS can charge you with an individual shared responsibility payment when you file your taxes in 2015. In their article on the subject, the IRS lists three reasons why you would have to make a payment: You have not signed up for a qualifying form of health insurance coverage. You had a gap in coverage in 2014. (If it was less than 3 consecutive months, you might qualify for an exemption.) You didn’t qualify for an exemption. The amount you owe will be based on the greater of: 1% of your household income that is above the tax return filing threshold … [Read more...]
Affordable Care Act Premium Tax Credit
Health care coverage can be a heavy burden for those who have a tight budget. Luckily, the IRS has allowed for a premium tax credit for those who have moderate incomes and need help paying for health care coverage. To be eligible for the premium tax credit, the IRS says you must: Get health insurance coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace Have a household income between one and four times the federal poverty line Not be eligible for other coverage, including Medicare, Medicaid, or sufficiently generous employer-sponsored coverage To read more on the Premium Tax Credit, visit the IRS' website. If you don’t have health insurance coverage in 2014 or you experience a … [Read more...]