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Health coverage exemptions: Forms & how to apply

Exemptions

If you're over 30 and want to enroll in a Catastrophic plan, you must apply and get approved for an exemption. (You don't need an exemption if you're under 30.)

What's a Catastrophic plan?

Catastrophic plans have lower monthly premiums and very high deductibles. They may be an affordable way to protect yourself from worst-case scenarios, like getting seriously sick or injured.
Who can get a Catastrophic plan?
You may be able to get a Catastrophic plan if one is available in your area and you’re either:
  • Under 30 years
  • Approved for a hardship or affordability exemption
If you qualify for the premium tax credit or cost-sharing reductions, a Bronze or Silver plan may be a better value. Be sure to compare.
Learn more about Catastrophic plans.
There are 2 types of exemptions:
  • Affordability (income related) – when the cost of the lowest-price coverage available to you costs over a certain amount of your household income.
  • Hardship – when you had a situation, like a disaster, being homeless, or other situation, that kept you and/or your household from getting coverage.
To get an exemption, you complete an application and mail it to us. We review applications for most states, even if they have their own Marketplace.
Get exemption details to apply.

Live in California, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, or Maryland?

These states have their own exemptions processes. Visit their websites to apply for an exemption:
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