Experts answer reader questions about new health care rules [Detroit Free Press]

Sept. 29--The Free Press wants to connect readers who have questions about health care reform with experts and answers. This week, we turned to Jan Hudson, a senior policy analyst for the Michigan League for Public Policy, and Paul Duguay, deputy director for the Michigan Association of Health Plans.

-- Full coverage: What you need to know about the Affordable Health Care Act

Question: How do I get my tax credits?

Answer: Consumers can take the credit up front to help them with immediate costs. Instead of paying $300 for a policy, for example, a buyer can apply the tax credit immediately to reduce the cost of the premium. A second option is to pay the full price of the premium and apply the refundable credits to next year's taxes.

I'm a veteran with benefits through the U.S. Veterans Administration. Do I need to do anything?

You're considered covered, and you don't have to do anything if you or your dependents are enrolled in one of four programs -- the veterans health care program, the VA Civilian Health and Medical Program (CHAMPVA), the spina bifida health care benefits program, or TRICARE. If you're not enrolled, you can get coverage through the marketplace, where you may qualify for tax credits, lower deductibles and co-pays, or for free or low-cost coverage through Medicaid.

My adolescent son needs specialized medical food for his medical condition. Will that be covered by policies on the exchange?

All policies on the exchange must meet some core benefits. Under these, an infusion feeding would be a covered benefit as long as the patient is confined to the home, under the care of a physician, receiving services under a plan of care established and periodically reviewed by a physician, and in need of intermittent skilled nursing care.

Some insurers might offer coverage beyond core benefits, so even if your son doesn't meet all those conditions, it's wise to shop around.

My question is about assets. I own a building and a car. Will these assets be used against me when determining tax credits?

Income known as Modified Adjusted Gross Income, MAGI, will be used to determine eligibility for tax credits and eligibility for Michigan's expanded Medicaid program. MAGI generally is your household's adjusted gross income plus any tax-exempt Social Security, interest and foreign income you have. Asset information will not be collected.

If I don't make enough to file tax returns, I understand I don't face a penalty if I don't have insurance. But if I can find a low-cost policy that I can afford, am I still eligible for tax credits to pay my premium?

Household income must be between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level to qualify for tax credits.

In 2014, it will be possible to apply for and receive tax credits without having filed a tax return in prior years. However, if you receive a tax credit in 2014, you must file a tax return for tax year 2014.

I have COBRA insurance through my ex-husband's employer. I have another two years before it expires, and I want to keep it. Will I face a penalty?

As long as the insurance meets minimum coverage standards, you will not be subject to penalties as long as you maintain that coverage through COBRA.

Questions? E-mail [email protected] We'll answer them at freep.com/affordablehealthcare and in the Free Press.

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