Individuals and Families

Photo: Woman holding baby. © Klaus Vedfelt/Digital Vision/Getty ImagesIt’s a fact that no two Minnesotans are the same. Yet every person would sleep better at night knowing they were covered against spiraling medical costs.

What if you couldn’t get health insurance through an employer? Many Minnesotans can’t – they may be self-employed or work part-time or be looking for work. That’s where MNsure can help you.

MNsure is a new marketplace where you can get quality, affordable health coverage that fits your budget and health care needs, beginning October 2013. You may even qualify for a low-cost or free plan. (Use the calculator to see if you qualify.) 

In the MNsure marketplace, health plans will be laid out in “apples-to-apples” comparison style and will be rated by quality measures so you can easily weigh plans side-by-side to find the one that’s right for you and your family.

Simply put, having health insurance coverage means a better outlook for your future – your health, your family, your finances. 

How It Will Work 
Ask a Question or Comment 

FAQs

Questions frequently asked by individuals and families in Minnesota about MNsure.

  • Does everyone have to purchase health insurance?

    Yes. Beginning January 1, 2014, all U.S. citizens and legal residents will be required to obtain health insurance coverage. Many will be covered by an employer plan, some will qualify for health programs, and others will purchase it themselves.

  • What happens if I don’t buy coverage?
    Starting in 2014, you will pay a tax penalty. The penalty will increase over time:
    • In 2014, it will be the greater of $95 per adult or 1 percent of taxable income.
    • In 2015, it will be the greater of $325 per adult or 2 percent of taxable income.
    • In 2016, it will be the greater of $695 per adult or 2.5 percent of taxable income.
    • After 2016, the tax penalty increases annually based on a cost-of-living adjustment.
    • A person will only pay one-twelfth of the total annual penalty for each month without coverage.
    • The penalty for a child is half that of an adult.
    • A maximum penalty would be calculated based on premiums for plans offered through the Exchange.
  • Are there exceptions?
    Yes. The law provides exceptions for: 
    1. Individuals and families below a certain income 
    2. People who cannot afford the coverage that is available 
    3. Individuals who have been uninsured for less than three months 
    4. Members of American Indian tribes 
    5. People who do not obtain coverage because of religious objection.