Frequently-asked questions by category
Is there still a penalty for being uninsured?
April 30, 2025 – The ACA's individual mandate penalty was assessed for the last time on tax returns filed in 2019; there's no longer a federal penalty for…
I was laid off and don’t have any income. What are my health insurance coverage options?
January 13, 2025 – Loss of employer-sponsored insurance because you were laid off counts as a qualifying event, and special enrollment continues for 60 days…
Who is keeping track of whether I buy health insurance through the exchanges?
December 11, 2024 – Regardless of where you get your health insurance, you (and the IRS) will get a tax form from your employer, insurance company, or exchange…
Does the IRS still enforce the individual mandate?
January 12, 2024 – The individual mandate and its associated penalty are applicable to 2018 tax returns, as the repeal of the mandate penalty didn't take…
Does every business with 50 or more employees pay a penalty if it doesn’t offer ‘affordable, comprehensive’ insurance?
January 10, 2024 – Businesses with 50 or more full-time equivalent (FTE) employees are required to offer comprehensive, affordable health insurance coverage…
I’m self-employed and am hiring employees. Under Obamacare, am I obligated to provide health insurance for them?
December 16, 2022 – No, unless you're hiring at least 50 full-time equivalent (FTE) employees. Businesses with fewer than 50 FTE employees (that's 96% of…
If I decide to gamble and go without insurance, isn’t that my business?
August 18, 2021 – An individual's decision to "gamble" and go without health insurance can result in uncompensated care – a financial burden on hospitals…