
Mimbres Memorial Hospital CEO Steve Westenhofer said their application counselors are available through February 15th to help people who lack access to a computer or just need help maneuvering through the enrollment website.
Under the Affordable Care Act, 2015 is the first year Americans must prove they had qualifying health insurance – or an approved exemption – for the previous year when filing 2014 taxes, or face a tax penalty.
For 2015, if you don’t obtain insurance by February 15th, the penalty will be applied to your annual taxable income for each full month you don't have health insurance in 2015. The penalty fee is $325 per adult, $162.50 per child – up to $975/family or 2% of family income, whichever is higher. And, without insurance, you will be financially responsible for all of your medical costs.
Westenhofer said they can help take the frustration out of the enrollment process if people will call them at 546-5890 before the February 15th deadline.