If you’re uninsured, there’s still time to sign up for health insurance on the Health Insurance Marketplace and avoid the penalty. Under the Affordable Care Act, 2015 is the first year Americans must prove they had qualifying health insurance (or an approved exemption) for the previous year (when filing 2014 taxes), or face a tax penalty.
As a service to the community, KCH is holding open walk-in sessions on Tuesday January 13, 20, 27 and Feb 10 in the hospital front lobby from 3pm until 6:30pm to assist anyone with their questions or sign up.
KCH Press Release- For 2015, if you don’t obtain insurance by February 15, 2015, the last day of the Open Enrollment period, the penalty will be applied to your annual taxable income for each full month you don't have health insurance in 2015. The penalty fee is $325 per adult, $162.50 per child – up to $975/family or 2% of family income, whichever is higher. And, without insurance, you will be financially responsible for all of your medical costs.
The good news is based on household income and dependents, some individuals may qualify for financial assistance from the government – or subsidies – towards the cost of the premium and other financial obligations like co-pays or deductibles.
“This is where KCH can help the uninsured in our community,” said Stephen R. Miller, CEO at Kosciusko Community Hospital. “With many people lacking access to a computer or just need help maneuvering through the enrollment website, our application counselors can help. We can assist individuals and their families evaluate the available health plans and determine if they’re eligible for Medicaid or other insurance options.
