There’s Still Time to Sign Up for Health Insurance

If you’re uninsured, there’s still time to sign up for health insurance on the Health Insurance Marketplace and avoid the penalty.

Under the Affordable Care Act, 2015 is the first year Americans must prove they had qualifying health insurance (or an approved exemption) for the previous year (when filing 2014 taxes), or face a tax penalty.

For 2015, if you don’t obtain insurance by February 15, 2015, the last day of the Open Enrollment period, the penalty will be applied to your annual taxable income. The penalty fee is $325 per adult, $162.50 per child – up to $975/family or 2% of family income, whichever is higher. And, without insurance, you will be financially responsible for all of your medical costs.

The good news is based on household income and dependents, some individuals may qualify for financial assistance from the government – or subsidies – towards the cost of the premium and other financial obligations like co-pays or deductibles.

“This is where Mary Black Health System can help the uninsured in our community,” said Sean Dardeau, CEO. “Our application counselors can assist individuals and their families with evaluation of the available health plans to and determine if they’re eligible for Medicaid or other insurance options.”

In all states, Medicaid provides health coverage for some low-income people, families and children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities. In some states, the program covers all low-income adults below a certain income level.

“Even though the South Carolina government has chosen not to expand Medicaid, there are still many individuals in our community who qualify for Medicaid coverage,” explained Dardeau “We can help screen these individuals and if they qualify, we can assist them in enrolling in Medicaid.”

Call (864) 573-3194 before February 15 to help you get a healthy start to the New Year.