The Affordable Care Act has made it possible for millions of Americans who were without insurance to get coverage. Quality health insurance is now more affordable and insurance companies can no longer deny you coverage because of a pre-existing condition, or cancel it if you become ill.
The Affordable Care Act also provides tax credits to low- and middle-income consumers to help them purchase health coverage through state-run insurance exchanges. The credits are available to people who are not in a government health insurance program, such as Medicaid or Medicare, and do not have access to an affordable plan at work.
How do the health insurance subsidies work?
Health care subsidies can save you money on your premium and out-of-pocket expenses. These subsidies are only available through each state’s marketplace. Covered California, our state insurance marketplace, offers a range of plans so consumers can choose the one that best meets their health needs and financial situation. Some plans can cover things like substance abuse treatment and other, more premium services.
But millions of people who are eligible for these subsidies aren’t taking advantage of them, according to CNN. The assistance is available to those with incomes of up to four times the federal poverty level around $46,000 for an individual or $94,000 for a family of four. The subsidy will be paid directly to the insurance company.
Cost Sharing Reduction Subsidies, available only on silver level plans, can lower the amount you have to pay out-of-pocket for deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. They can also reduce the maximum out-of-pocket costs you are responsible for in a policy period.
Where can I find out if I qualify for a health insurance subsidy?
The federal government’s healthcare.gov website has a quick form that you can fill out and find out if you qualify for savings.
How do I apply for Covered California and subsidy plans?
California Exchange Plans can provide information about Covered California health plans along and give you quotes for individual and family health insurance. We can help you understand everything you need to know about exchange quotes and plans and will even help you apply for Covered California.