How to Get a 1095-A Form for Your Health Coverage
Learn how to obtain your 1095-A form for health coverage, explore eligibility, request methods, and resolve common issues for tax filing.
For those who enrolled in a health insurance plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace, obtaining Form 1095-A is essential. This document provides details about your coverage and any premium tax credits you received, playing a significant role during tax season.
Official Sources
Form 1095-A is issued by the Health Insurance Marketplace, managed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Each year, the Marketplace makes this form available to individuals enrolled in qualified health plans, typically by mid-January. This timing allows for adequate preparation during tax season.
The IRS provides guidance on how to use Form 1095-A for tax filing, particularly regarding the Premium Tax Credit. While the IRS does not issue the form, it offers detailed instructions in Publication 974 to help taxpayers report the information accurately.
For those using state-based Marketplaces, these entities independently issue Form 1095-A to individuals who purchased insurance through their platforms. If you don’t receive your form by the expected date, contact your state Marketplace directly for assistance.
Eligibility Requirements
Form 1095-A is provided to individuals enrolled in a qualified health plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Those with coverage through employer-sponsored plans or government programs, like Medicaid, are not eligible to receive this form. This distinction is critical since Form 1095-A is tied to the Premium Tax Credit, which is exclusive to Marketplace plans.
Eligibility also depends on the duration of coverage. Only individuals with at least one month of Marketplace coverage during the tax year will receive the form. The document is issued to the primary policyholder, who is responsible for reconciling any advance payments of the Premium Tax Credit on their tax return.
Request Methods
There are multiple ways to obtain Form 1095-A, depending on your preferences and circumstances.
Online Platform
The easiest way to access Form 1095-A is through the Health Insurance Marketplace’s online portal. Log into your account to download the form directly. This method ensures immediate access and is ideal for timely tax filing. Be sure your account information is current to avoid any issues. The website also offers resources and FAQs to help users understand the form’s contents and its role in tax filing.
Mail or Phone
If you prefer traditional methods, the Marketplace automatically mails Form 1095-A to the address on file, typically by mid-January. If you haven’t received your form by early February, contact the Marketplace’s customer service line for a reissue. Having your account number and personal information ready will expedite the process. Keep in mind that this method may take longer than accessing the form online, so act early to avoid delays.
Local Assistance
Local resources, such as certified application counselors or navigators, can assist in retrieving Form 1095-A. These professionals are trained to handle Marketplace-related inquiries and can guide you through the process. Some state-based Marketplaces also have physical locations for in-person assistance, which can be particularly helpful for those with complex situations or limited online access.
Troubleshooting Missing Forms
If you haven’t received Form 1095-A, first verify that your contact information with the Marketplace is accurate. Incorrect details can result in delays or misdirected mail. Check for electronic notices in your Marketplace account, as some communications may be delivered digitally.
If you still can’t locate the form, contact the Marketplace directly and provide your Social Security Number and policy details to expedite the inquiry. The IRS allows for a grace period if delays in receiving critical tax documents, such as Form 1095-A, interfere with filing on time. Use this additional time to resolve any discrepancies.
Using the Form for Tax Filing
Form 1095-A is crucial for reconciling advance payments of the Premium Tax Credit on your tax return. This reconciliation ensures that the tax credit calculated based on your actual income matches the advance payments you received during the year. Completing this step accurately prevents discrepancies on your return.
Review the three sections of Form 1095-A: Part I includes enrollee information such as the policyholder’s name and address. Part II lists monthly health coverage details, which are essential for determining the Premium Tax Credit. Part III outlines advance payments made on your behalf. Cross-reference these figures with your records to confirm their accuracy.
Once reviewed, use the form to complete IRS Form 8962, which calculates the exact Premium Tax Credit. If your actual income is higher than estimated, you may need to repay part of the credit, subject to caps. If your income is lower, you might qualify for additional credit. Understanding this process is key to compliance and can influence your overall tax liability, helping you better plan for future years.