ACA Trap: Double-Dipping on Employer and Marketplace Coverage

Imagine this: you’ve been laid off from your job towards the end of the year and uncertainty fills your mind about the future. To stay covered, you enroll in an ACA (Affordable Care Act) health insurance plan. However, things take an unexpected turn when your employer calls you back before the end of your ACA coverage period. Now, you find yourself with double coverage from both your employer and the ACA. What do you do?

The ACA Double-Coverage Trap

Unknowingly signing up for double coverage under the ACA and employer-provided insurance can be a sticky situation. The ACA has strict rules in place to prevent people from receiving multiple subsidies. If you receive health coverage from both sources, you may end up having to repay the premium tax credits you received through the ACA.

Consequences of Double-Dipping

The consequences of double-dipping on ACA and employer coverage can include:

Repayment of Premium Tax Credits: You may have to pay back the tax credits you received to help cover your ACA premiums.
Fines: In some cases, you may face penalties for receiving double coverage.

What to Do if You’re Double-Covered

If you find yourself with double coverage, the best course of action is to:

Cancel Your ACA Coverage: Immediately notify the ACA marketplace and cancel your coverage as soon as you become aware of your employer coverage.
Report Your Employer Coverage: Inform your employer about your ACA enrollment and provide proof of coverage (such as your ACA ID card). This will help avoid any confusion or penalties.
Contact a Licensed Agent or Certified Application Counselor: Seek professional guidance from a licensed agent or certified application counselor who can help you navigate the complexities of ACA and employer coverage.

Tips to Avoid Double Coverage

To avoid the hassle of double coverage, keep these tips in mind:

Check Your Eligibility: Before enrolling in an ACA plan, verify that you do not have eligible employer-sponsored coverage.
Know Your Employer’s Coverage Start Date: If you’re expecting to be rehired, find out when your employer coverage will start to avoid any overlaps.
Notify the ACA Marketplace: If your circumstances change and you become eligible for employer coverage, promptly update the ACA marketplace to prevent double enrollment.

Remember: If you have any questions or concerns about ACA coverage, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance. A licensed agent or certified application counselor can provide personalized assistance and ensure that your health insurance needs are met.