Frequently-asked questions by tag
We claim our son, but not our daughter, on our taxes. How are premium subsidies calculated for families like ours?
December 5, 2022 – Q. My husband and I have two children. We claim our son on our taxes; he's in high school, lives at home and has a part-time job. Our 23…
How does my access to employer-sponsored coverage impact my eligibility for subsidized coverage through the exchanges?
November 21, 2022 – A. Fortunately, the IRS has issued new rules, effective in 2023, to allow some families to take advantage of premium subsidies in the…
If my income is less than expected this year, I might be eligible for Medicaid. What can I do to cover my bases?
September 1, 2022 – Q: I'm self-employed, so my income varies from one year to the next. I enrolled through the exchange and projected an income that makes me…
Can I buy health insurance through the exchange that’s compatible with an HSA?
August 29, 2022 – When choosing a health plan during open enrollment or a special enrollment period, there's a less obvious form of healthcare savings you…
Can I purchase a Platinum policy and also get a premium subsidy?
July 12, 2022 – You can buy a Platinum plan and also get a premium subsidy. The size of the subsidy is based on the cost of a Silver plan, but you can…
I thought subsidies were available for anyone with incomes up to 400% of poverty level, but the calculators I’ve used say our family doesn’t qualify. Why?
July 7, 2022 – Q. My income is $44,000, which is just about 344% of poverty level. I thought that subsidies were available for anyone with incomes up to…
If all Silver plans cover the same benefits and percentage of costs, why do premiums vary by carrier?
July 5, 2022 – Q. If all of the Silver plans in an exchange must offer the same benefits, and cover 70 percent of the cost of those benefits, why do…
Do Gold exchange plans offer more generous coverage than Bronze or Silver plans?
September 13, 2021 – Q. I have read that the Gold plans sold in the exchanges offer more generous coverage. What exactly does a Gold plan cover that isn't…
If I sign up for a Bronze plan during open enrollment, can I bump my coverage up to a higher level several months later if I find out that I need surgery?
August 18, 2021 – After open enrollment ends, you normally can't change your policy until the next open enrollment period, unless you experience a qualifying…
I’m a legal U.S. resident, but not a citizen. My job doesn’t offer health benefits. Can the ACA help me?
June 2, 2021 – Legal U.S. residents have the same eligibility as citizens to receive subsidies for health insurance purchased in the…