Nearly a century passed after President Teddy Roosevelt first called for health care reform in our country and when the President signed the Affordable Care Act into law. As costs went up, more and more Americans were without insurance– they simply couldn’t afford it. Those of us fortunate enough to have health insurance ended up paying a “hidden tax” to cover the costs of the uninsured when they became sick.

The Affordable Care Act was developed after dozens of hearings were held by multiple committees and hundreds of expert witnesses representing every point of view across the ideological spectrum testified. On March 21, 2010, Rep. Eshoo was proud to vote for H.R. 3590, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (P.L. 111-148).

Implementation of the Affordable Care Act

Beginning in 2014, individuals and families gained many new options for health insurance through Covered California. For families that qualify, financial assistance helps make health insurance more affordable. Covered California sells a variety of health plans at different price points for individuals and small businesses.

Did You Recently Learn About the Tax Penalty for Being Uninsured?

Covered California is offering a time-limited opportunity to enroll during special enrollment for consumers who did not realize there was a tax penalty in 2014 or learned they may face a penalty in 2015. From now until April 30, 2015, consumers are eligible to apply for health coverage during special enrollment. Applicants must attest to the fact that they did not realize there was a tax penalty by selecting “Informed of Tax Penalty Risk” on the drop-down menu. To start the process for this special-enrollment category, click here.

In addition, there are other conditions that may qualify you to enroll in coverage outside of the open-enrollment period. Read more about special enrollment year-round here.