Exemptions from the requirement to have health insurance
The fee for not having health insurance (sometimes called the "Shared Responsibility Payment" or "mandate”) ended in 2018. This means you no longer pay a tax penalty for not having health coverage. If you don’t have health coverage, you don’t need an exemption to avoid paying a tax penalty.
However, if you’re 30 or older and want a "Catastrophic" health plan, you must apply for a hardship exemption or an affordability exemption to qualify. Learn about exemptions and Catastrophic coverage.
Live in California, the District of Columbia, or Maryland?
These states have their own exemptions processes. Visit their websites to apply for an exemption:
- If you live in California, visit Covered California.
- If you live in the District of Columbia, visit DC Health Link.
- If you live in Maryland, visit Maryland Health Connection for information on exemptions.