Health care can be complicated. It helps to stay focused on the big decision issues and know that help is available if you need it. It may help to focus on these four simple priorities this month:
- PLAN AHEAD: The cost of health coverage can be up to almost 20% of total household income for middle class people in the $50
,000 to $100,000 income range. This is a tremendous financial burden that needs to be part of your overall long term financial plan. No political solution will make this problem go away; it is up to you. Take control now by doing what is necessary to protect yourself.
- QUALIFY FOR A TAX CREDIT: Most people – about 4 out of 5 people – who need health insurance qualify for reduced-cost coverage made possible by income tax credits that are advanced through your insurance company. It is important to have your online application for 2018 at healthcare.gov* complete by December 15 so get an early start.
- OTHER TAX PLANNING: For the 1 in 5 applicants who do not qualify for a premium subsidy (mostly self-employed people or early retirees with income over $100
,000) it takes serious financial planning to cover this expense. Some relief may be available through smart tax planning to cover the expense on a tax exempt basis that saves thousands.
- FIND AN ALTERNATIVE: If you can’t afford this type of Obamacare coverage
, there are two important next steps are: 1) qualify for a waiver of the tax penalty, and 2) enroll in an alternate less expensive health plan that might cover less but is better than being unprotected.
Freedom Benefits can offer free help with any of these four priorities.