With the tax-filing deadline right around the corner on April 15, many of you have questions about the ACA (Affordable Care Act) with its individual mandate and how this applies to Christian Scientists. Here is a quick review.
ACA (Affordable Care Act)
The ACA (Affordable Care Act) with its individual mandate went into effect last year (in 2014). This requires most Americans to have a medical health insurance plan that meets federal requirements or to pay a tax penalty. If an individual had enrolled in a qualifying plan by March 31, 2014 she/he would not have to pay the penalty. For 2015, the enrollment period ended on February 15, 2015.
For specific questions about the ACA, the Christian Science Committee on Publication Federal Office has a comprehensive section on ACA (Affordable Care Act) FAQs. There is an answer to every possible question you might have.
The FAQs address topics such as:
· Determining whether you have a qualifying health insurance plan
· Paying the penalty for not having a qualifying health insurance plan
· Other ways to satisfy the individual mandate requirement
Choosing your options—Flow Chart
If you still have questions about what your options are under the ACA, this 2014 ACA decision flow chart for Christian Scientists is really helpful. Or for Massachusetts residents: 2014 health insurance compliance flow chart.
If you still have questions, you can check out the Federal Office’s ACA Resources Page OR contact us at inquiry@chbenevolent.org or 617-734-5600 or leave your question in the Comment box below.
