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Notice: During the government shutdown, continue using your 2025 health insurance plan and providers. Use this site to apply for and enroll in 2026 coverage during Marketplace Open Enrollment.

Health coverage exemptions: Forms & how to apply

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, you may be able to get a
plan if available in your area if one of these applies to you:
  • Under 30 years
  • Over 30 years and don't qualify for
    on a Marketplace plan
  • You qualify for a
    or
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:

Learn more about health coverage exemptions

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