How long do I really have to sign up for Obama care ? Well there are really 2 very important dates to keep in mind December 15, 2013 which is the date you will need to sign up if you want your coverage to begin January 1, 2014. The next very important date is February 15, 2014 this is the last day you can get coverage and avoid being liable for a penalty for not having insurance. So what is the penalty for you not having insurance ? The maximum penalty for not having insurance for the entire year is $95 or one percent of your taxable income. Either way you will be penalize so lets avoid this penalty by going to www.healthcare.gov and get started in finding coverage. Or start by checking with your home care or home health provider to find out what your options are. The open enrollment period actually will run until the end of March 2014. However you may still have to pay a penalty while filing your taxes in 2015 for the 2014 year for not having coverage by the February date. 

Whether you go through healthcare.gov or maybe your state is running their own site one of the things you will find is information on cost. Plug in your estimated annual income for the year 2014 and it will give you an idea of how much of a subsidy you may be eligible for. For incomes ranging from 11, 000 and 45, 000 for an individual, and 23, 000 to 94, 000 for a family of four. You may be eligible for help with paying for you premiums. There are also various online calculators you can use including a subsidy calculator . These calculators should tell you if you might be eligible for Medicaid. Medicaid coverage are for those individuals with very low income, no income, and usually is free. 

What does the Affordable Care Act mean for seniors ? The health insurance exchange are for people under the age 65. They're not for seniors who have Medicare or Medicaid the exchanges do not see Medicare prescription drug coverage or supplemental coverage. October 15, is the start of Medicare's open season, this open season runs until December 7. During this time, Medicare patients can join or change there drug or health plans. This is not Obama Care however, so if you're a medicare patient go to Medicare.gov for more information. If your a Texas Choice Senior and Pediatric Service client your care coordinator may have already. Or will be assisting you step by step with understanding all Medicare and Medicaid concerns you may have.

Hopefully I was able to answer if not all but many of the important questions you have about the Affordable Care Act. Our duty here and Texas Choice Senior and Pediatric Services is to make sure all of our clients are full aware of all there benefits and any health care expectations. 

Have a happy healthy day !!!!