Individuals & Families have until February 15 to enroll in a health plan for 2015. After that deadline, one must have a qualifying event to be eligible for a new health insurance policy.
The penalty for 2015 is pretty steep (unlike 2014). If you choose to go without insurance for 2015, you will incur a federal income tax penalty of either 2% of your income or $325 per adult family member & $162.50 per child under 18 ….whichever is higher. For most out there, we are at the point where it make sense to purchase health insurance rather than pay the penalty because the costs are the same.
On a positive note, Covered California is operating a lot better than last year. We are experiencing fewer glitches on the site and shorter phone hold times. According to Covered California reports, the enrollment figures are up from 2014…which is a sign that those who watched from the sideline last year are now participating. It will be interesting to see what the final figures look like and what 2016 brings us. Remember in 2016 Covered California is suppose to be self sufficient…not more federal funding. Fun times ahead .
