General Discussion
Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsI guess Obama wants me to work harder :)
Last edited Mon Dec 2, 2013, 06:33 PM - Edit history (1)
Im 47 - lucky enough to have a paid for house...relatively low property taxes.
I work part-time - mostly...self employed...build a few websites a year, sound and light tech at a local theatre.
I might make 12-15 grand a year...Im single,...I use a wood stove and cut my own wood - I have a garden - and make my own meals...I don't have cable...I have a month to month cell phone...I do pay for internet.
I live in rural America - and I like it.
Now ACA health insurance will be - by far - the biggest bill I will have to pay each month. (my electric might reach 100 a month in winter)
looks like I will now be paying 200+ bucks a month...for the minimum Bronze plan.
Somehow...this doesn't seem like what I voted for...basically doubles my monthly "corporate" bills...(sans food, etc)
The only way I see to make it - start building twice as many websites...and perhaps starting another business.
I hate the idea of having to give up self-employment...working at home.(or nearby)...
No way I'm going to a commuter lifestyle...NO WAY! Not even for you Obama!!!
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SammyWinstonJack
(44,130 posts)
SharonAnn
(13,776 posts)where you would've been eligible for it, if they had implemented it. And therefore you are not in the category that gets subsidies.
It sucks, but those states that refused to implemented Expanded Medicaid are the ones that have done it to their people.
Schema Thing
(10,283 posts)hexola
(4,835 posts)I think some of my situation is related to PA not participating in the expansion of Medicaid...
JaneyVee
(19,877 posts)otohara
(24,135 posts)which is where those who don't sign up will continue to go.
ProdigalJunkMail
(12,017 posts)
LoveIsNow
(356 posts)regardless of in which state you live. Did you only go on the browsing section of the website?
hexola
(4,835 posts)203 a month...no mention of subsidies...
pnwmom
(108,980 posts)Blame the people in your state who decided not to expand Medicaid, even though higher income people will still see an increase in their Federal taxes to pay for it. The extra money will help the Federal government balance its budget ,but it won't help the PA residents it was intended to help.
You should be screaming about this at the state level. Your governor and/or legislators are the ones who are denying you Medicaid, not Obamacare.
Fumesucker
(45,851 posts)
NightWatcher
(39,343 posts)3. Do you get an email from a rw talking point factory or do you listen to the radio for marching orders?
hexola
(4,835 posts)Are you saying the RW is right?
NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)hexola
(4,835 posts)Numbers from another website arent going to help...
NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)The Kaiser link comes from healthcare.gov. It tells me a silver plan will cost $20/month and bronze is free, but only if you're in an expanded medicare state.
What state do you live in and do you smoke?
hexola
(4,835 posts)The states that aren't participating are going to have some blowback...
NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)The PA website was overloaded, but the Kaiser subsidy calculator is still valid, you should try it for your zip code.
You might want to try the phone help line 1-800-318-2596 or find a walk-in center: https://www.healthcare.gov/contact-us/
Here are the results I got, which suggest that Federal tax credits will cover most of the cost of your premium (based on $12,000 income), but even $15,000 is within the guidelines for federal support:
Household income in 2014:
104% of poverty level
Maximum % of income you have to pay for the premium, if eligible for a subsidy:
2%
Health Insurance premium in 2014 (for a silver plan, before tax credit):
$2,943 per year
You could receive a government tax credit subsidy of up to:
$2,703 per year
(which covers 92% of the overall premium)
Amount you pay for the premium:
$240 per year
(which equals 2% of your household income and covers 8% of the overall premium)
hexola
(4,835 posts)The cheapest Bronze plan offered is $202.97 per month...
I saw no mention of tax credits or eligibility for such...
The "results" table says:
"Eligible to puchase health insurance through the Marketplace, including catastrophic plans..."
(no catastrophic plans are offered though!)
NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)That's what I did. I called the number and put on my earbuds and went for a nice two mile walk.
The on-hold music was terrible but they were accurate with the estimate that I'd be on hold about 30 minutes
The man who came on was named "Osama"! 
I had already printed the four plans I was interested so kind of knew what I wanted, but he talked me out of a Gold and into a Silver after we had a three-way call with my Physician's office to confirm participation in the Blue Cross PPO plan.
You can't beat a real person.
So, grab your earbuds and make the call and go for a walk or read a book or do some chores and eventually someone will help you.
There's also a "chat" option on that "contact us" page: https://www.healthcare.gov/contact-us/
Remember, every state is different so most DU members aren't going to be able to give you very solid answers unless they've been through it AND live in PA.
And even then, you need the real deal from the horse's mouth, and ask every question you have.
I'll be your premium after assistance will be less than $50, and you'll be able to get screenings, coverage for hospitalization, things you never had before and which could cost you that home you own outright.
You don't want to lose your home to unexpected medical bills.
Voice for Peace
(13,141 posts)Rex
(65,616 posts)you will have to use the sites calculator to tell you. The premiums you are looking at are examples.
Savannahmann
(3,891 posts)is an estimate from the Kaiser Family Foundation. It is not the same as Healthcare.gov. At best, it can give you an estimate, and that estimate has already been shown to be wildly inaccurate.
NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)It is a link for calculating benefits that exists on the healthcare.gov website.
No, of course it is not the same thing.
The OP has to go to his state's website in any event.
hexola
(4,835 posts)NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)Again, you need to use the phone or the chat line.
Your premium is gonna be less than $25.00/month.
hexola
(4,835 posts)I've seen the offerings!...
Gonna have to call...hope something is screwed up!
Rex
(65,616 posts)Let us know how it turns out!
Savannahmann
(3,891 posts)The estimator is acknowledged to be seriously problematic, and the KFF is not the Healthcare.gov site, it is an attempt using the language of the law, coupled with the regulations, to give you an estimate of your healthcare costs. It is NOT intended to give you an actual quote, and it is not an estimate that anyone is using to hang their hats on. Because there are numerous stories about it being wildly inaccurate. But keep pointing at it and shouting that this says one thing while the actual healthcare.gov website says something different.
The Kaiser Family Foundation is a Non Profit, and allow me to quote.
Now do you understand that they are not affiliated with HEALTHCARE.GOV in any way, shape, or form?
nadinbrzezinski
(154,021 posts)http://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1002&pid=4121055
While you are correct they are independent, the ACA site has a direct link to it, with proper caveats. Unless of course I am wrong. It is possible, but any domain name with gov in the domain game is a government site.
For the record, I would have rather prefer a single payer health system, and taking pharma and insurance companies profit margin out of it.
Savannahmann
(3,891 posts)We don't rush to the KFF site to challenge those who say they got covered under the ACA. We only rush there in an effort to discredit those who are not covered like we would wish.
Single Payer is a pipe dream, we will be lucky if we are able to salvage the ACA and keep the Republicans from gutting it. Right now, they stand a very good chance of doing that if they can win in 2014, and our battle plan to hold the Senate, and take the House seems to be praying that the Republicans are dumb enough to self destruct.
Single Payer may be a very good answer to what this nation needs, but an equally probable solution that the people will throw their support, and votes behind is further deregulation. Does anyone not understand the importance of the ACA. For it to be a stepping stone to Single Payer it has to succeed. Then we have to show that the care would improve and costs would go down under Single Payer, but pointing to a failure and then asking politicians to risk what little political capital they have left with the electorate to get behind single payer is insane. We wouldn't win dog catcher in the local elections in most of the nation with that plan.
Single Payer is not a solution at this time, it really isn't. What we need to do now is figure out where the problems are with what we have, and what if any solutions to those problems we can implement. Arguing that the problems, many predicted, with the ACA are proof we need to go to single payer is electoral suicide.
nadinbrzezinski
(154,021 posts)Now, for somebody trying to discredit a site linked by the ACA itself, I have not seen you try to help the OP in any substantial way. Linking to elite media sites does not help. Giving the OP actual tools, such a link to navigators, or why in the state of PA he should be getting a much lower rate is actual help.
As to the ACA site, once again a government site, they warn this particular link is a tool, not the end of all days, or the top authority. It is just one tool, they recommend. I guess the good folks at the Atlantic, who like myself already have insurance, did not bother with all the caveats.
Savannahmann
(3,891 posts)One must recognize that the OP has a problem. The first thing that many here did was what you did. Run to the KFF and proclaim that the OP was wrong and not getting what they should. In other words, the first thing that anyone here does is run with those tools that are not accurate and use them to discredit the person posting the information that is not in keeping with the meme on the ACA.
Second, we have to figure out how widespread the problem is, because sending the OP to a dozen different people to be told basically what is on the ACA website (official not the KFF) does little but discourage the OP and drive those with similar problems into the shadows, and enough of us live in the shadows without having their numbers increased by intolerance here.
Then when we see the problems, we can then propose solutions. Yes, those solutions will probably not get through the House with the Rethugs in control. But that doesn't mean we don't look for solutions, it means we explain the problem, and the solution, and we push to make it happen against the odds. Character isn't what you have when you are fighting a winning battle, it's what you show when you are fighting a losing battle.
But before we can do anything other than berate the OP, we have to admit that there is a problem, and there are holes in our legislation that can be fixed, or we can ignore them and berate those who bring it up. I choose to recognize the problem, and try and find a solution that plugs those holes so that everyone can get healthcare. That isn't going to happen by sending the OP on a treasure hunt through a dozen different websites and outreach programs. It doesn't fix things to point them to a flawed tool that contradicts the information on the official site, always a popular effort on this website. That happens by admitting that the OP has a problem, a real problem, and then figuring out how to fix it.
The OP was pointing out that the majority may well be better off under the ACA. But that everyone isn't automatically better off. Declaring that they despite the facts is only giving our enemies ammunition to use against us, and they have more than enough to harm us already.
nadinbrzezinski
(154,021 posts)We are using the same ugly tools the government is using.
I guess they should not use those tools, alas they are.
But whatever. He is in a group of people that even without Medicaid (blame his governor) he should still get a subsidy. It has to do with federal poverty rates.
But whatever...
Rex
(65,616 posts)The 300 per month premium you are looking at is for someone that makes 3 to 6 times what you make in salary so you are not getting an accurate amount.
hexola
(4,835 posts)Was on this morning though...
factsarenotfair
(910 posts)Me, I'm not a techie and I'm less careful. 
NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)I didn't know what state you're in or if you smoke, so you should use this calculator yourself to check.
http://kff.org/interactive/subsidy-calculator/
Results
If Your State Decides to Expand Medicaid
States have the option to expand Medicaid coverage to everyone under 138% of the poverty level. If a state expands Medicaid, most of the costs are covered by the federal government under the health reform law. If your state decides to expand Medicaid, your income (which is 104% of the poverty level) will make you eligible for the program. Medicaid coverage varies from state to state, but out-of-pocket costs are generally very low. Tobacco use is never taken into account in Medicaid eligibility.
If Your State Decides Not to Expand Medicaid
If your state decides not to expand Medicaid, you or some members of your family may still be eligible for coverage, depending on your state’s eligibility criteria. Contact your state’s Medicaid office or exchange for more information.
Because your income is equal to 104% of the poverty level, you may be eligible for tax credits in the exchanges. Tax credits are only available to people with incomes between 100% and 400% of the poverty level. The information below is about subsidized exchange coverage:
Household income in 2014:
104% of poverty level
Maximum % of income you have to pay for the premium, if eligible for a subsidy:
2%
Health Insurance premium in 2014 (for a silver plan, before tax credit):
$3,962 per year
You could receive a government tax credit subsidy of up to:
$3,722 per year
(which covers 94% of the overall premium)
Amount you pay for the premium:
$240 per year
(which equals 2% of your household income and covers 6% of the overall premium)
Rex
(65,616 posts)Or $25 a month, not bad. That was under the silver plan.
Yo_Mama
(8,303 posts)Yeah, yeah, I know it's linked on the healthcare.gov website, but the answer means nothing.
They used average values and the calculator was built years ago. The way the subsidy is actually calculated is from the enrollee's income and on the cost of the second cheapest silver plan available.
This person doesn't get a subsidy if he enters in his right income because his income is too low, so that's why he has to pay the full premium. He would qualify for Medicaid if his state offered it, but apparently it doesn't.
hexola
(4,835 posts)as other DU'ers have insinuated...?
Yo_Mama
(8,303 posts)You have to ignore these people. Can you raise your income on your app to get past this?
hexola
(4,835 posts)She sent me to the Appeals link...not sure what approach I'll take at this point...
Maybe just borrow enough to pay for a year...and get my income up.
And bitch never-endingly about Gov Corbett...
Jesus Malverde
(10,274 posts)Isn't the subsidy a tax credit? So if you didn't owe, there is nothing to offset or credit?
The actual subsidy is money from the government to the insurance company.
They collect this amount when they collect the taxes from the consumer, unless they qualify for a credit.
However the taxpayer would never see a larger refund.
I'm confused...
peace.
NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)Not a medicaid subsidy.
Tell the representative about all your details and then ask about the federal tax subsidy, how does that work.
I did a check for him using zip code 17901, age 47.
You have a $203/month credit due you if you make $15,000/year.
http://www.discoverhighmark.com/insurance/tax-savings-estimator
factsarenotfair
(910 posts)Also, how do you have an electricity bill of $100 a month if you have wood heat?
hexola
(4,835 posts)I have 2 lengths of baseboard electric heat - I run them in the winter with the stove...(when I have too).
I have a big stereo - and run a few desktop comptuers 24/7...
100 is probably the high side on a cold month...
factsarenotfair
(910 posts)Did you go in for yearly physicals? Did you ever have any medical expenses in the last 20 years?
AgingAmerican
(12,958 posts)I know I wouldn't be thrilled.
The OP must be eligible for some subsidy. Can check here: http://obamacarefacts.com/obamacare-subsidies.php
brush
(53,784 posts)But it would only be $75, not a big amount.
And the I read that the Federal Government is hardly likely to come after you for that.
However, you should seriously think about getting coverage under the new health care law. With the government subsidy you will only be paying $20 or so dollars a month, if that.
Living almost off the grid like you describe, accidents can happen.
okieinpain
(9,397 posts)Response to factsarenotfair (Reply #7)
Name removed Message auto-removed
hexola
(4,835 posts)
BlueCaliDem
(15,438 posts)I read it the first time. Strange how you missed it.
hexola
(4,835 posts)The baseboards I use in the winter as supplement...when its below 20...I need it on!!!
I dont recall any questions about home ownership in the website interview...
jberryhill
(62,444 posts)...if you burn yourself with the stove or cut yourself with the axe, then we all pay for your treatment. Is that it?
hexola
(4,835 posts)What part of my post(s) make it seem like Im trying to NOT have insurance???
Response to hexola (Original post)
Name removed Message auto-removed
Capt. Obvious
(9,002 posts)msanthrope
(37,549 posts)wrong--call and ask for help with the website.
hexola
(4,835 posts)I set up my account on Nov 29...
sharp_stick
(14,400 posts)If I were you I'd call them and check it out with a real person before throwing in the towel.
factsarenotfair
(910 posts)And, no, actually I don't think President Obama wants you to work harder. I do think he wants you to have health care.
Fumesucker
(45,851 posts)Getting the work in the first place, if you live in a rural area you are not likely to have a lot of connections for getting website building work.
hexola
(4,835 posts)I keep a steady crop of smaller projects going...I charge 25 bucks an hour...and rarely need more than 8 for any project (usually bill 8 no matter)
Yes - other webmasters have bitched at me...
But - I work with musicians a lot - they don't have tons of jack...
factsarenotfair
(910 posts)Wow.
hexola
(4,835 posts)Yes EVERYTHING!!!
whttevrr
(2,345 posts)That's pretty good. You should see that as a successful implementation of the law.
factsarenotfair
(910 posts)hexola
(4,835 posts)Its pretty simple...
factsarenotfair
(910 posts)Have you been able to get through on the website yet?
hexola
(4,835 posts)And have walked through the eligibility interview...and am now at the part where they show all the plans with the "Enroll" buttons...
factsarenotfair
(910 posts)hexola
(4,835 posts)As soon as I find my mistake...
sharp_stick
(14,400 posts)on the top right of the page after the plans are presented.
Important: The prices here don't reflect the lower costs you may qualify for based on household size and income.
Many people who apply will pay lower monthly premiums than those shown here. Households with yearly incomes up to about $46,000 for individuals or $94,000 for a family of four will qualify for lower costs. The prices you see are for people who don't use tobacco. You'll get final quotes for specific plans based on your income and household after you complete a Marketplace application.
To find out if you may qualify for lower costs, use this this simple calculator.
You'll have to use the calculator or pick up the phone to figure out what it's actually going to cost you.
hexola
(4,835 posts)Theres no way they want me to start Enrollment - without knowing the price!!!
factsarenotfair
(910 posts)hexola
(4,835 posts)It sure seems to work...I doubt it would let me skip important stuff...
sharp_stick
(14,400 posts)homepage under the "See Plans Before I Apply" Link.
https://www.healthcare.gov/find-premium-estimates/
I filled out information as a single man age 46 in Lancaster County (you said rural and that one came to mind).
Just on the right hand side of the page asking for the information it says:
This isn't the application for Marketplace coverage. No information you enter here will carry over to your application.
Important: The prices you see here won't reflect the lower costs you may qualify for based on household size and income.
Many people who apply will pay lower monthly premiums than those shown here. Households with yearly incomes up to about $46,000 for individuals or $94,000 for a family of four will qualify for lower costs.
If you're looking at plans and prices for yourself, or for yourself and your family, you'll see:
plans you may be able to buy
plan prices based on your age, family size, and where you live
The prices you'll see are for people who don't use tobacco. You'll get final quotes for specific plans based on your income after you complete a Marketplace application.
When you go to the next page it will show you the numbers you saw originally which are the full price plans. They won't give you any information on subsidies or tax credits until you complete the marketplace application. I don't know why they don't allow you to just ask for it here? Probably some privacy law.
In any case you can get estimates on your actual out of pocket and check links that show income based costs.
What income levels qualify for lower costs?
https://www.healthcare.gov/how-can-i-save-money-on-marketplace-coverage/
Based on your 12 - 15k/year income estimate you are pretty clearly on the levels that should allow you access to lower costs on both premiums and out of pocket.
Also the calculator below will give you a rough estimate of any savings you should be eligible for.
https://www.healthcare.gov/how-can-i-get-an-estimate-of-costs-and-savings-on-marketplace-health-insurance/
I think your easiest course of action, at least at first, would be to call them up at 1-800-318-2596
They can probably explain it a lot better than I can.
Good luck.
hexola
(4,835 posts)and they showed me the available plans I can enroll in...
lancer78
(1,495 posts)from the mandate if your premiums will be more then 10% of your income which appears to be the case.
hexola
(4,835 posts)1StrongBlackMan
(31,849 posts)that's creative!
former9thward
(32,016 posts)It's only $95.
DCBob
(24,689 posts)Try again.
TheKentuckian
(25,026 posts)I don't believe subsidies are available for these folks, most money earmarked for them so they get the waiver but no coverage.
Hopefully, the poster can take advantage of the community health centers.
Savannahmann
(3,891 posts)I wish many others here did. The calculation estimating websites like the Kaiser Family Foundation have already been shown to be wildly inaccurate. http://www.nonprofitquarterly.org/policysocial-context/23205-calculate-your-health-insurance-subsidy-here-but-you-might-not-be-able-to-do-so.html
While it is accepted that the ACA is very good for MOST, it is not good for ALL. You unfortunately are one of the ones that are not going to be good for according to your story. I only wish that other posters here realized that good for most did not mean good for all.
Egalitarian Thug
(12,448 posts)Once you find out you don't qualify (you said you own your house), you should qualify for an exemption. Beware of the so-called bronze plans, the deductibles for people in our position make it expensive to actually use.
hexola
(4,835 posts)So - not sure that's on the table...
Egalitarian Thug
(12,448 posts)Last edited Mon Dec 2, 2013, 04:30 PM - Edit history (1)
I expect your Medicaid system is on par with most republican states and you will be disqualified since you do have assets. Let us know, please.
sweetapogee
(1,168 posts)Medicare should allow you to have assets but he didn't say anything about collecting SS. Medicaid will probably not allow ownership of major assets.
Egalitarian Thug
(12,448 posts)
SidDithers
(44,228 posts)Sid
NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)Brilliant, I wish I'd thought of it.
SidDithers
(44,228 posts)
Sid
Tarheel_Dem
(31,234 posts)
doc03
(35,340 posts)just stay out of it.
Tarheel_Dem
(31,234 posts)come down with some catastrophic illness that makes it impossible for you to pay your own health care costs. Have you thought about that? Who's supposed to pay for you, when you inevitably get sick, or wind up in a horrific accident? "Obama"? 
1StrongBlackMan
(31,849 posts)you're in luck!
It'll only cost about $12 a month for the privilege of you remaining without health insurance.
I wonder what your monthly payment will be if/when you get sick?
factsarenotfair
(910 posts)It wasn't around for a family member who died years ago because she didn't have health insurance.
hexola
(4,835 posts)Quote from Application Results on Healthcare.gov...
DanTex
(20,709 posts)Do you not want health insurance?
I won't get into the argument about whether you qualify for subsidies, but it is pretty likely that insurance would be cheaper with Obamacare than without.
1StrongBlackMan
(31,849 posts)a hell of a lot cheaper than falling ill without healthcare insurance.
jberryhill
(62,444 posts)And since nobody was ever injured by an axe or a wood burning stove, then he's all set.
rufus dog
(8,419 posts)Did you call?
What was your final rate?
hexola
(4,835 posts)Im really hoping I (or the website) screwed something up here...
I'll follow up once I get some more infos...
egduj
(805 posts)Sorry you got the wrong end of the stick.
doc03
(35,340 posts)47 years old would be $300 a year. But if your state takes the expanded Medicaid like Ohio you would qualify
for Medicaid and pay $0.00. One trip to a doctor can cost more than $300.
nadinbrzezinski
(154,021 posts)think about it this way. You have an accident or a sudden medical emergency, all you have right now, you will lose. In fact, if you can, I would consider a silver program. With the Federal Subsidies it will not be that much more. It might very well save what you have, and your rural lifestyle. This will be especially the case if YOU USE IT, and go see the doctor for all that wonderful preventive health care. You truly never know when a medical emergency might rear it's ugly head.
hexola
(4,835 posts)Not 20 a month...
nadinbrzezinski
(154,021 posts)CALL THEM!!!!!
Here you go
By phone
We can help you complete the entire application process from beginning to end with information you provide over the phone, including reviewing your options and helping you enroll in a plan. We can also answer questions as you fill out an online or paper application. We’re available 24/7.
1-800-318-2596
TTY: 1-855-889-4325
hexola
(4,835 posts)Pretty lame if I have to resort to the phone after pissing an afternoon away on healthcare.gov...
Shouldn't the website be offeringing me correct infos?
nadinbrzezinski
(154,021 posts)If your state expands medicaid your cost will be zero.
CALL THEM.
So far you are repeating quite RW claims here.
As is this is the result I get from NATIONAL AVERAGE, from the Kaiser Family Foundation for your case on a SILVER plan, which is even better than a bronze plan. (A link at the ACA site by the way)
Household income in 2014:131% of poverty level
Maximum % of income you have to pay for the premium, if eligible for a subsidy:2%
Health Insurance premium in 2014 (for a silver plan, before tax credit):$3,542 per year
You could receive a government tax credit subsidy of up to:$3,242 per year
(which covers 92% of the overall premium) Amount you pay for the premium:$300 per year
(which equals 2% of your household income and covers 8% of the overall premium)
So no, the website is NOT wrong.
Hell, you could even afford that silver plan.
Please, call them.
hexola
(4,835 posts)I'd LOVE to be wrong here...
I will call..
nadinbrzezinski
(154,021 posts)has refused to expand Medicaid using mostly free Federal Funds.
JoePhilly
(27,787 posts)NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)Have been telling him the same things over and over.
He needs to call, or he can use the chat feature, but no way he is paying what he says he'll pay.
Yet wants to blame Obama.
nadinbrzezinski
(154,021 posts)For not expanding Medicaid.
That is the truth. If he has a heart attack and has no insurance, that will be a nasty surprise. He is in the prime age for that.
hexola
(4,835 posts)She couldn't even bring up my application because its already been filed...
She told me how to search the website for the "Appeals" page...
NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)That is the workaround you'll have to use since, apparently, they didn't spell out the details the first go round.
hexola
(4,835 posts)Hearing nice stories from people on the phone is heartwarming...but not going to help here.
NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)Ask about the Highmark's Shared Cost Blue PPO 5500.
Tell the representative about all your details and then ask about the federal tax subsidy, how does that work.
I did a check for you using zip code 17901.
You have a $203/month credit due you if you make $15,000/year.
http://www.discoverhighmark.com/insurance/tax-savings-estimator
Highmark Pennsylvania?
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Quotes on All PA Medicare Plans. Compare your Medicare Options Now!
Highmark Blue Cross of PA - HighMark.iWebQuotes.com?
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TheKentuckian
(25,026 posts)to get Medicaid.
They definitely should call to be sure but I think the poster is getting advice that isn't helpful to their specific situation and way too much snack from nasty assholes with fingers in their ears and heads in the ground.
Once this proves out, the assholes brigade will chime in with move, instruction to get busy electing Democrats, and the ever helpful suck it deadbeat.
rufus dog
(8,419 posts)Just trying to get an accurate assessment. Some say you should be paying almost nothing per month, yet you are saying it is 200 + per month which is greater than 10% of you income. I thought that the cost was not to exceed 9% thus the interest in your dilemma?
Was the person you talked to able to provide an adequate explanation? Assuming you have called.
hexola
(4,835 posts)This is the results of my application...next step is enrollment...no mention of subsidies...
doc03
(35,340 posts)only $300 a year if you make $15000 like you claim and if your state expands Medicaid it will cast you nothing.
hexola
(4,835 posts)Mentioned a few times...
rufus dog
(8,419 posts)But you OP states "OBAMA" wants you to work harder. Do you see the disconnect?
nadinbrzezinski
(154,021 posts)not the ACA. Your state could get those expansions, Anyway, I just posted the Kaiser Family Foundation result.
Savannahmann
(3,891 posts)I was wondering, why would you post the numbers of a non profit site that is not affiliated with Healthcare.gov in any way, shape, or form, as a counter to the numbers that the person got from the Healthcare.gov website?
http://www.nonprofitquarterly.org/policysocial-context/23205-calculate-your-health-insurance-subsidy-here-but-you-might-not-be-able-to-do-so.html
Are we supposed to point to the KFF site and inform the IRS that we shouldn't be fined because the non profit KFF says we should not be? Should we call the insurance companies and explain that the KFF site which is advertised as an estimation, has a different number than the official site?
nadinbrzezinski
(154,021 posts)See the domain name there, as www.healthcare.gov
Savannahmann
(3,891 posts)Or perhaps this story out today. http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2013/11/the-infinite-bewilderment-of-signing-up-for-obamacare-subsidies/281096/
Or perhaps you could think about this. That is an estimation, and the actual results will vary. The poster makes too little to qualify for the subsidy, and the state does not offer expanded medicare. However, they are exempted from the penalty. That BTW is not taken into account at the KFF site. So just tossing the KFF numbers at people when we KNOW, not believe, KNOW that they are not accurate in many circumstances is both insulting, and insensitive. People are posting the actual numbers they are getting from Healthcare.gov and all you wannabe experts are rushing to KFF and shouting that it can't be right because KFF says it isn't. Why can't we just admit that the law works well for MOST, but many, like the OP, are going to be the few that get screwed?
Until we are able to honestly discuss the issue, we are never going to get an accurate read. How many times have you run to the KFF site to check the claims of someone who said they are getting a good deal on the healthcare.gov website? I'll hazard a guess that the answer is NONE.
But every time someone posts their actual numbers from healthcare, and they are not favorable, then wham the internet is flooded with all of you rushing to KFF to prove them wrong, when the proof is an estimate based on information that is general.
nadinbrzezinski
(154,021 posts)as in the US Government, as in the ACA website.
THEY are using it. I found the site by looking INSIDE the ACA website.
Oh and it was also pointed out that it is Governor Tom Corbett (R) of PA who also refused to expand medicaid with Federal Funds, and that it was he who was to blame for those higher rates, not the ACA.
But you knew this. At least I hope you did.
I am not claiming to be an expert, but I am sure there are ways around to get a more favorable rate due to his income. But if you think I am, so be it.
Have an excellent day.
doc03
(35,340 posts)hexola
(4,835 posts)203 a month for Bronze...
doc03
(35,340 posts)hexola
(4,835 posts)I completed the Application at Healthcare.gov...nothing about subsidies...
doc03
(35,340 posts)I get Medicare and don't even qualify for the ACA and I was interested enough to research it.
hexola
(4,835 posts)Im past the research stage folks!!!
This is the real deal!!!
The calculator you mention says "You'll get final quotes for specific plans based on your income and household after you complete a Marketplace application."
And my final quote is $203 a month...lowest bronze coverage...
giftedgirl77
(4,713 posts)You have been told by numerous ppl in the same situation as you, in states without the Medicaid expansion that your numbers are waaaayyyyy off. Please call & verify your numbers prior to continuing to posting this as a fact repeatedly.
hexola
(4,835 posts)I will have to call I guess...
giftedgirl77
(4,713 posts)if in the end it is the difference between $300 annually & $2400 don't you think? Maybe President Obama just wants you to work harder by picking up the phone & verifying your rates? It is your $$$ and all.
1StrongBlackMan
(31,849 posts)Complain about the number you got at the website ... People tell you that you're likely eligible for a subsidy that'll significantly lower the number ... you complain about the website ... rinse/repeat.
It would seem this would have been a four step discussion (if you were being genuine):
Complain about the number you got at the website ... People tell you that placing a call would likely reveal a significantly lower the number ... you complain about the website ... you make the call.
I suspect, you suspect that you're making the call would give an end to your concern trolling.
hexola
(4,835 posts)Correct?
Oh - I'll make the call...dont worry about that...
1StrongBlackMan
(31,849 posts)if you are not seeking an answer to your "concern", i.e., allowing you continue expressing your "concerns.".
hexola
(4,835 posts)Called - she wasnt even able to bring up my application because its already been filed...
upaloopa
(11,417 posts)because the IRS isn't going to go folks who don't get insurance.
Go to the ER for health care. If you get a catastrophic accident past the cost off on people like me.
But don't blame Obama for wanting to cover you blame insurance cos.
nobodyspecial
(2,286 posts)That is NOT Obama's fault. That is the fault of your state's elected leaders. You are one of those who fall into a big crack. You make too much or have some assets, so you don't qualify for Medicaid under your STATE'S system. And you make too little to rise above the level that takes into account expanded Medicaid, which is how Obama wanted you covered at NO COST.
The income level is based on an estimate of your 2014 income. Play with the numbers and estimate a little higher until the subsidy kicks in. You probably are just short of the mark right now. Qualify for the highest subsidy possible based on your income and I bet you could get that number to $20 a month.
Then, raise your rates a bit (they are very low) to make up the difference. No need to commute. No need to give up your commuter lifestyle. You have insurance and your same standard of living. Or, do you want to continue to sell yourself short, remain without insurance and continue ranting about Obama, when it actually was your state that screwed you?
hexola
(4,835 posts)(quote from Application results)
crazylikafox
(2,758 posts)hexola
(4,835 posts)I surely hold Corbett in account here...and plenty of other places!
Schema Thing
(10,283 posts)In which case, your OP should mention the governor of PA, as opposed to "Obama".
Also, you'll just have to tailor your income up or down a couple of thousand to either get covered in ACA (for very little per month) or get into Medicaid. Irritating as hell, I know.
doc03
(35,340 posts)a year. I don't know but I would guess by income they mean AGI not actual income.
hexola
(4,835 posts)The calculators are irrelevant...
hexola
(4,835 posts)Not trolling here guys - lighten up!
Yeah Corbett is major you know what...
Tarheel_Dem
(31,234 posts)have been told repeatedly to pick up the phone, but I guess that's too much "work", so now you've lapsed into pissing and moaning about the website, which I believe was your goal all along. If, as you state, you don't want to "work harder", then you're not worth all the time that others are spending doing your research for you. Sounds like you have a very relaxed lifestyle, and congratulations on that, but the time you've spent whining about a website would probably have been better spent speaking to a navigator who is paid to know this stuff.
I mean, it's the difference between $300 & $2400 a year. Don't you think that's worth investigating?
hexola
(4,835 posts)I've been told repeatedly that I could apply for affordable coverage online...
Of course Im going to call!!!
Try putting down YOUR talking points for a second...
Tarheel_Dem
(31,234 posts) doc03
(35,340 posts)of your income.
Schema Thing
(10,283 posts)I'd happily overstate my income (or count fewer expenses, whatever) and pay a few more dollars in taxes to get such a great deal on health insurance.
treestar
(82,383 posts)Like most Republicans, he thinks it is good for your character.
JoePhilly
(27,787 posts)I bet.
Tarheel_Dem
(31,234 posts)
hexola
(4,835 posts)B2G
(9,766 posts)that makes no sense at all...
(I'd like to see them TRY to ban fireplaces.)
JoePhilly
(27,787 posts)After reading that terrifying article (with a rather annoying advertisement playing in the background), I went to the actual EPA website.
http://www.epa.gov/burnwise/ordinances.html
You should read it ... really, you should.
And then, for more fun, I went looking for wood buring stoves on Amazon ... they had over 15,000 hits and at least 15 different vendors ... so it looks like the wood burning stove industry is doing ok ...
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_sc_0_11?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=wood%20burning%20stove&sprefix=wood+buring%2Caps%2C138&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Awood%20burning%20stove
Then I poked around that site some more ... HILARIOUS right wing nonsense all over it.
Thanks for playing.
hexola
(4,835 posts)Didn't even read it...Pick your source...
Sounds like they just want the industry to start making stoves to a certain spec/efficiency...
Its not like they are coming for your stove...
JoePhilly
(27,787 posts)hexola
(4,835 posts)about an story that is months old...
JoePhilly
(27,787 posts)If you are going to write a snarky OP, you should expect snarky responses.
From reading the posts in your thread, it became clear to me that you don't really know much about the law, but that you knew almost enough to blame the President for a situation that even you admit you aren't completely clear on.
In response to my intentionally snarky response, you pointed to a RW nutjob site claiming it was the 2nd hit for Google News. I doubt that. I googled a number of versions of Wood+Stove+Regulations+EPA and that site never appears. Which seems odd to me.
Snarky, complaint about the law that turns out to be rather weak, RW website as a response ... you see where I'm going here ... right?
If your situation is what you claim, you could pay the $95, a penalty that actually suspect you'd get an exception for anyway, and continue on with no insurance.
The bigger problem for you, and my mother, is the risk that your GOP Govener's unwillingness to expand Medicaid will lead to the closing of rural hospitals. That will hurt people with and without insurance.
hexola
(4,835 posts)Pretty shitty attitude...
uppityperson
(115,677 posts)Tarheel_Dem
(31,234 posts)
Lifelong Dem
(344 posts)http://www.medicaid.gov/AffordableCareAct/Provisions/Eligibility.html
In 2012 133 percent of the federal poverty level was $14,856
Give that a try first.
hexola
(4,835 posts)Lifelong Dem
(344 posts)hexola
(4,835 posts)jackass corbutt!
hexola
(4,835 posts)No dice...she was unable to pull up my application...because its already been filed.
She told me how to find the appeals process on the website...
So - my critics and naysayers...Satisfied...?
Yo_Mama
(8,303 posts)Can you get your income next year up to 16K? That would give you a subsidy, I think.
hexola
(4,835 posts)not that big of a problem...but sucks to find I wont have coverage unless I pay 200+ a month.
1StrongBlackMan
(31,849 posts)how are you worse off them before?
It seems what is standing in the way of your benefitting from the ACA is based in your own personal decision-making.
hexola
(4,835 posts)I need to work more...its pretty simple!!!
1StrongBlackMan
(31,849 posts)that's not the title of your post.
But that said, you can always just sit back and do what you have been doing.
uppityperson
(115,677 posts)hexola
(4,835 posts)I'm thinking I may have blown the Income part of the application...
Deleted and started over...
NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)Call back and don't tell them you've already applied.
You could ask as a non-applicant and describe all your details and then ask about the federal tax credit.
She, or they, should have sent you an email confirmation of your application and a case number.
I recommend you look into Highmark's Shared Cost Blue PPO 5500 Community Blue plan for no premium.
According to the article:
In Allegheny County, a family of four (assuming two adults aged 21, and two children) earning 100 percent of the federal poverty level (which is $23,550 for a family of four) could buy Highmark's Shared Cost Blue PPO 5500 Community Blue plan for no premium.
The plan costs $4,463 annually, or $371 a month, but the tax credits for the plan would be $4,748 annually, or $395 a month.
In other words, the subsidies are greater than the cost of the plan.
Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/business/2013/11/10/Free-health-insurance/stories/201311100095#ixzz2mLxVZODm
Yo_Mama
(8,303 posts)That's the problem.
You are exempt from the fine, though.
You can try to get your income up, but then you won't get the subsidy for 2014 unless you can bill a lot before March and use that income.
Try the hotline -they may be able to advise you to use your estimated 2014 income. I wouldn't want to advise you to revise it up because if that happens, maybe they will come back after you with a bill you can't pay, and if they do, it will be the IRS chasing you.
hexola
(4,835 posts)Yo_Mama
(8,303 posts)What can I say - DU has not been receptive to news about the issues, and there are some issues. Why people who are using a completely irrelevant calculator want to call you names I can not say.
Try to get your income up and reapply in January with 2014 estimated income.
I'm sorry. I know that's harder to say than do, but that's the only option you seem to have.
Celefin
(532 posts)Makes you a target around here and will reduce the amount of actual answers to your problem to a minimum.
NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)Tax credits. I'm certain that you didn't have your plan carefully explained to you as regards tax credits.
Free health insurance available for Pa. residents - but buyer beware
November 9, 2013 8:04 PM
By Bill Toland / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians and up to 7 million Americans could be eligible for a "free" health care policy via the much-maligned Obamacare health insurance exchange, after federal tax credits are figured into the math.
snip...
In Allegheny County, a family of four (assuming two adults aged 21, and two children) earning 100 percent of the federal poverty level (which is $23,550 for a family of four) could buy Highmark's Shared Cost Blue PPO 5500 Community Blue plan for no premium.
The plan costs $4,463 annually, or $371 a month, but the tax credits for the plan would be $4,748 annually, or $395 a month.
In other words, the subsidies are greater than the cost of the plan.
Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/business/2013/11/10/Free-health-insurance/stories/201311100095#ixzz2mLyVoLuH
nadinbrzezinski
(154,021 posts)For the record the link is in a PA government site
http://guides.nnlm.gov/content.php?pid=488916&sid=4093139
I think you would benefit from one greatly.
No, you are not a troll, and we are trying to help.
hexola
(4,835 posts)All they did was ask you what you made last month...(I think)
It wasn't like they asked about "Line XX" on your 2012 income tax...
My monthly income is all over the map!
I just divided my yearly claim by 12...I guess that was dumb..
NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)I don't know your actual county, but...I did a check for you using zip code 17901.
You have a $203/month credit due you if you make $15,000/year.
http://www.discoverhighmark.com/insurance/tax-savings-estimator
One plan, before the tax credit, is under $200:
Flex Blue PPO 4000 a Community Blue Plan
PPO | Bronze
Highmark Health Services
Monthly premium
$198/mo
One enrollee
Deductible
$4,000/yr
Per individual
Out-of-pocket
$6,350/yr
Per individual maximum
Copayments/Coinsurance:
Primary Doctor: $60
Specialist Doctor: $100
Generic Prescription: 40% Coinsurance after deductible
ER Visit: 40% Coinsurance after deductible
Prices will be lower if you qualify for help paying for coverage. Read more. (check the chart)
NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)Check this page: https://www.healthcare.gov/glossary/advanced-premium-tax-credit/
Here's the calculation for your potential tax credit:
As Nadin suggests, you should call a navigator armed with all this new knowledge and ask the right questions.
You can modify the plan you signed up for, be sure to ask about that, too.
Tarheel_Dem
(31,234 posts)If ya know what I mean....
Response to Tarheel_Dem (Reply #182)
Post removed
Tarheel_Dem
(31,234 posts)
hexola
(4,835 posts)So I can start over...
Im going to have to talk to someone about my income...its sort of erratic - and hard to answer the questions on the website.
If I add all my December 2013 income together...it would make it seem like I make a lot more on a yearly basis...
I just dont want to get caught doing something dishonest...
hexola
(4,835 posts)I have a lot of shows this month - so I might clear 2000 in December 2013...(I get a 1099 for this)
But that would not match my 2012 return in any way...
nadinbrzezinski
(154,021 posts)They are paid to help you through the process.
Just trying to help.
hexola
(4,835 posts)Pay stubs
W-2 forms
Information about income
They never ask anything about 2013...but I based all my answers on that.
nadinbrzezinski
(154,021 posts)It sounds like you are self employed (1099). Your income goes up and down, and all that. So they should be able to answer that.
hexola
(4,835 posts)And I - admittedly have some income that is not claimed...not much...but if I dont get a 1099...I usually don't claim it.
Plus - I have checks written to me - that I use to pay another guy...but my name is on the check!
nadinbrzezinski
(154,021 posts)But I am sure they will be able to answer that question. Self employed with variable incomes tend to give most people fits as to how to declare income.
hexola
(4,835 posts)My situation is CERTAINLY NOT an indictment of the ACA...
nadinbrzezinski
(154,021 posts)I want it to work for you. In fact you should be able to get insurance for far less, but to clarify it you need a person with expertise. Most folks should be able to go through the site and get it done, but there are always exceptions.
I sincerely hope you can get it done with what we found, and an expert. None of us are experts. We are just well meaning ones and zeroes on the internets.
Tarheel_Dem
(31,234 posts) hexola
(4,835 posts)Im not making enough for the subsidy...
Theres nothing wrong with having to work harder!!!
hexola
(4,835 posts)uppityperson
(115,677 posts)
Last edited Mon Dec 2, 2013, 02:33 PM - Edit history (1)
Im 47 - lucky enough to have a paid for house...relatively low property taxes.
I work part-time - mostly...self employed...build a few websites a year, sound and light tech at a local theatre.
I might make 12-15 grand a year...Im single,...I use a wood stove and cut my own wood - I have a garden - and make my own meals...I don't have cable...I have a month to month cell phone...I do pay for internet.
I live in rural America - and I like it.
Now ACA health insurance will be - by far - the biggest bill I will have to pay each month. (my electric might reach 100 a month in winter)
looks like I will now be paying 200+ bucks a month...for the minimum Bronze plan.
Somehow...this doesn't seem like what I voted for...basically doubles my monthly "corporate" bills...(sans food, etc)
The only way I see to make it - start building twice as many websites...and perhaps starting another business.
I hate the idea of having to give up self-employment...working at home.(or nearby)...
No way I'm going to a commuter lifestyle...NO WAY! Not even for you Obama!!!
2
NYC_SKP
(68,644 posts)Prolly still on hold.
