EXEMPTIONS

Most Americans are required by law to have health insurance; however some people may qualify for an exemption. Individuals who qualify for an exemption do not have to purchase insurance coverage or pay the tax penalty.

Click on the tabs below to see a list of exemptions, applications, and information about catastrophic coverage.

Exemptions

Possible exemptions include:

  • You qualify for a hardship exemption.
  • Insurance is unaffordable based on your projected household income for the upcoming year.
  • Insurance is unaffordable based on the income you reported last year.
  • Your income is below the tax filing limit.
  • If you have short gaps in insurance (less than 3 months).
  • You are not a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, or an alien lawfully present in the U.S.
  • Your religious organization objects to health insurance.
  • You are a member of a federally recognized Tribe or eligible for services through an Indian Health Services provider.
  • You are a member of a recognized health care sharing ministry.
  • You are incarcerated (either detained or jailed) and not being held pending disposition of charges.
Required Forms

Exemptions are evaluated and determined by the federal government, not by Your Health Idaho. The following links will take you to the federal website where you can find more information about specific exemptions and the required forms. By clicking the links below you will be leaving the Your Health Idaho website.

If you have questions about applying for exemptions or catastrophic insurance, we encourage you to contact an agent or broker.

Catastrophic Coverage

A catastrophic plan protects individuals and families in the event of serious medical emergencies and illnesses. It does not provide insurance for doctor’s visits or prescriptions.

If you have been approved for a hardship exemption, or are under the age of 30, you may be eligible to enroll in a catastrophic plan. 

Important Note: catastrophic plans are not eligible for APTC or cost-sharing reductions.  

To enroll in a catastrophic plan, follow these steps:

  1. Apply for coverage without cost-savings on Your Health Idaho and be determined eligible to enroll in a health insurance plan.
  2. Once you finalize your health plan choice, enter the hardship exemption number sent to you by the Federally Facilitated Marketplace to view catastrophic plans.