There are exemptions to the health care penalty:
- Exemptions are available based on a number of circumstances, including certain hardships, some life events, health coverage or financial status, and membership in some groups.
- You claim most health coverage exemptions on your federal tax return. Some require you to fill out and mail an application to the Marketplace.
- You don’t have to pay the fee for any month you have qualifying health coverage. If you’re uncovered only 1 or 2 months, you don’t have to pay the fee for any month.
For more information, see https://www.healthcare.gov/health-coverage-exemptions/exemptions-from-the-fee/
