Marketplace Eligibility

I heard the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate ended. Does it still make sense to sign up?


Congress eliminated the federal tax penalty for not having health insurance, effective January 1, 2019. While there is no longer a federal tax penalty for being uninsured, some states (CA, MA, NJ, and RI) and DC have enacted individual mandates and may apply a state tax penalty if you lack health coverage for the year. Regardless of any tax penalty, it is still important to have insurance coverage to help reduce the risk of large medical bills if you get sick, pay for medications, and keep you healthy by paying for check-ups and preventive care.

Open Enrollment for the coming year still takes place every fall. Uninsured individuals who need coverage can apply for health plans and financial help during Open Enrollment. People already enrolled in a Marketplace plan should review their plan choices, renew or change coverage, and update their application for financial assistance. Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) remain open for enrollment year-round for eligible individuals with lower incomes.

While we have made every effort to provide accurate information in these FAQs, people should contact the health insurance Marketplace or Medicaid agency in their state for guidance on their specific circumstances.

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Washington Offices and Barbara Jordan Conference Center: 1330 G Street, NW, Washington, DC 20005 | Phone 202-347-5270

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The independent source for health policy research, polling, and news, KFF is a nonprofit organization based in San Francisco, California.