By: Jim Winkler

Jim Winkler — Wed, 28 May 2014 15:51:57 +0000

That is a great question! I'd recommend that you go to the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) site www.healthcare.gov and look there first. It is very likely that you will qualify for discounted coverage. I do a lot of work with folks who struggle to make ends meet, and so far, everyone of them has found a policy there that they could afford, that was really a blessing. If you need help, please feel free to contact me, okay? Thanks for asking!

By: Dan Beukelman

Dan Beukelman — Wed, 28 May 2014 15:14:54 +0000

There are several options for you if you can't afford health insurance. First, many people qualify for subsidized premium payments through the healthcare exchanges. I have seen people purchase health insurance that was free, and many that paid between $20 and $60 per month for compliant health plans. The real premium may be much higher but the Federal government helps you pay the premium if you make between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level. If you make less than 100% of the federal poverty level you should qualify for Medicaid if you are in a state that allowed for Medicaid expansion. About 22 states have done that, so your chance is about 50/50 that you would be able to get free coverage through Medicaid if you make less than 100% of the federal poverty level. You can also claim that purchasing health insurance is a financial hardship. This is more of an accounting issue than an insurance issues so consult an accountant but I believe the burden of proof (this year) is fairly easy you simply fill out a form stating that you couldn't afford it. Worst case you pay the penalty when you do your taxes which is $95.00 or 1% of your income whichever is more, so the penalty is not a huge deal, but as you can see there are several inexpensive ways to get coverage and not pay a lot. Email me directly and I can help get you pointed in the right direction. My email is dbeukel1@amfam.com

New answer on: What To Do If You Can’t Afford Health Insurance?

By: Jim Winkler

By: Dan Beukelman