ACA Health Insurance: Coverage Options for Green Card Holders

In line with the recent post, we’ll discuss health insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) for lawful permanent residents, commonly known as green card holders.

Eligibility for Green Card Holders

Green card holders are “lawfully present” immigrants, which makes them eligible for ACA health insurance. They are entitled to apply for coverage through the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace and qualify for premium tax credits based on their income.

Income Eligibility

The ACA uses the federal poverty level (FPL) to determine premium tax credit eligibility. In 2023, individuals with incomes between 138% and 400% of the FPL are eligible for credits, which can significantly reduce monthly premiums.

Coverage Options

Green card holders have access to a range of health insurance plans on the ACA Marketplace, including:

1. Bronze Plans: Offer basic coverage with lower monthly premiums and higher deductibles.
2. Silver Plans: Provide more comprehensive coverage than Bronze plans, with higher premiums and lower deductibles.
3. Gold Plans: Cover a wider range of services, with higher premiums but lower deductibles.
4. Platinum Plans: Offer the most comprehensive coverage, with the highest premiums but lowest deductibles.

Affordability

The cost of ACA health insurance depends on several factors, including the individual’s age, location, and the plan they choose. Green card holders with incomes below 250% of the FPL may qualify for reduced premiums and cost-sharing subsidies.

Legal Requirements

To enroll in an ACA health insurance plan, green card holders must:

1. Be lawfully present in the United States.
2. Reside in the state where they are applying for coverage.
3. Not be eligible for Medicare or other government-sponsored health insurance programs.

Next Steps

To explore ACA health insurance options for green card holders:

1. Visit the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace website at HealthCare.gov.
2. Contact a licensed health insurance agent for personalized guidance.
3. Submit an application during the annual Open Enrollment period or during a special enrollment period.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information about ACA health insurance for green card holders. It is always advisable to consult with a licensed health insurance agent for specific guidance based on your individual circumstances.