| FEBRUARY 1, 2015 -- The National Grange has a variety of policies on health care which lead us to support some principles and oppose others in the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare). This notification is not meant to support or oppose any particular aspect of the Act. Its sole purpose is to alert Grange Members of the February 15, 2015 deadline to enroll in health coverage plans if they need to or want to.
DECISION DEADLINE FEBRUARY 15
SIGN UP FOR HEALTH INSURANCE OR PAY TAX LEVIES FOR NO INSURANCE
The Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) requires most people have health insurance coverage or pay a fee to the federal government. Options for coverage are private insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, or Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
If you already have insurance or acquired insurance in 2014, you do not have to re-enroll. If you do not have health insurance after February 15, 2015, you will be subject to a penalty of either, 1) 2% of your income or, 2) $325 per adult and $162.50 per child, whichever is higher for 2015.
For those who did not have health insurance coverage during 2014, you will be assessed a penalty fee with your 2014 federal tax return. You’ll pay the higher of 1% of income or $95 per person and 47.50 per child. The fee is set to increase every year. You might be eligible for an exemption from the fee if affordable health plans were not available to you, if you had only a short gap in coverage, or other possible exemptions might apply.
Additional information is attached to help Grangers with their decision process. The Health Insurance Marketplace is a way to find health coverage that might fit your budget and meet your needs. You can connect to Marketplace by phone at 1-800-318-2596 or online at Healthcare.gov. Many communities have organizations and individuals that can help you apply, choose a plan, and answer questions. A list of help in your local area can be found at Find Local Help-URL: https://localhelp.healthcare.org or by calling 1-800-318-2596.
You are encouraged to ask your local Grange Youth members to help you and others in your community navigate these web sites. This activity will qualify them for the Gold Seal for the Caroline Hall Achievement Award. Just have them get a letter of verification from a member of their subordinate Grange stating their work with the program. |
