6. What are the statutory exemptions from the requirement to obtain minimum essential coverage?

Religious conscience. You are a member of a religious sect that is recognized as conscientiously opposed to accepting any insurance benefits. The Social Security Administration administers the process for recognizing these sects according to the criteria in the law.

Health care sharing ministry. You are a member of a recognized health care sharing ministry.

Indian tribes. You are a member of a federally recognized Indian tribe.
No filing requirement. Your income is below the minimum threshold for filing a tax return. The requirement to file a federal tax return depends on your filing status, age and types and amounts of income. To find out if you are required to file a federal tax return, use the IRS Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA).

Short coverage gap. You went without coverage for less than three consecutive months during the year. For more information, see question 22.

Hardship. The Health Insurance Marketplace, also known as the Affordable Insurance Exchange, has certified that you have suffered a hardship that makes you unable to obtain coverage.

Unaffordable coverage options. You can’t afford coverage because the minimum amount you must pay for the premiums is more than eight percent of your household income.

Incarceration. You are in a jail, prison, or similar penal institution or correctional facility after the disposition of charges against you.

Not lawfully present. You are not a U.S. citizen, a U.S. national or an alien lawfully present in the U.S.

Questions and Answers on the Individual Shared Responsibility Provision