What was it? What were you supposed to get done last week? Wash the car? School shopping with the kids? What about FILE YOUR TAXES?
4.5 million households received a Tax Credit Subsidy to help to pay for their 2014 health insurance. Close to 1.8 million of them, about 40%, have yet to file a complete income tax return. You must file a complete tax return, including form 8962, to qualify for next year’s subsidy.
No Tax Return – No Subsidy – No Insurance
The Tax Credit Subsidy is what allows many families to be able to afford health insurance. These subsidies are significant. The national average is $272 a month, over $3,000 a year. I’ve seen families qualify for twice that amount. It is hard to believe that anyone would jeopardize this lifeline intentionally.
The IRS has begun to contact these households. HealthCare.gov’s national frustration number, 1.800.318.2596, reports an uptick in tax related inquiries. And the administration is focused on the 60% who have complied. But no one really knows what is going to happen when the subsidy spigot is shut off for those who failed to file.
Consider this a gentle reminder. If you are a member of one of the 1.8 million households that received a subsidy but have yet to file a complete tax return, NOW is the time to get this done.
Truer words were never spoken. Thanks for the head’s up. This will be a really useful piece of information for many.