Skip to content
Search
Search
  1. Health
 

Who Must Have Insurance Under the New Health Care Law?

by Patricia Barry, AARP Bulletin, May 1, 2010

Starting in 2014 almost all U.S. residents must have at least basic health insurance. “Insurance” means coverage from employers or public programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs or insurance you buy on your own.

  • If you remain uninsured, you’ll be required to pay a penalty of $95 or 1 percent of your income, whichever is greater, in 2014, rising to $695 or 2.5 percent of your income in 2016 and later. The penalties apply to each uninsured adult in the household, with a $2,085 annual limit for families.
  • You will not be fined for going without insurance if your income is so low you don’t have to file taxes; if premiums for the cheapest insurance plan available would cost more than 8 percent of your income; if you can demonstrate financial hardship; or if you’re an American Indian, qualify for a religious exemption or are in prison.
  • The government cannot seize your property or use liens to enforce the law, or send you to jail.

 

More Insights About the New Health Care Law

 

Other Insurance Situations

 

AARP In Your State

Visit the AARP state page for information about events, news and resources near you.

aarp member benefits logo

Featured AARP Member Benefits

See All >

  • Magazines & Resources

    AARP Rewards

    Learn, earn and unlock exclusive members-only offers with AARP Rewards

    learn more
    See more Magazines & Resources offers >
  • Health & Wellness

    BMI Calculator

    Determine your healthy weight

    learn more
    See more Health & Wellness offers >
  • Health & Wellness

    AARP® Staying Sharp®

    Activities, healthy recipes, games and more through AARP Staying Sharp®

    learn more
    See more Health & Wellness offers >
  • Health & Wellness

    LensCrafters

    Members can save 50% on prescription lenses

    learn more
    See more Health & Wellness offers >