Form 1095-A, also known as the Health Insurance Marketplace Statement, is a crucial tax document if you purchased health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace. This form contains information you need to reconcile advance payments of the premium tax credit and to claim the premium tax credit on your tax return. Understanding Where Do I Get My 1095 A Form and what to do with it is essential for accurate tax filing. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining your Form 1095-A and using it effectively.
Understanding Form 1095-A and Why It Matters
Form 1095-A is not just another piece of mail; it’s a vital document provided by the Health Insurance Marketplace (also known as exchanges like HealthCare.gov or state-based marketplaces). It details the months you and your family had coverage, the total monthly premiums for the coverage, the second lowest cost silver plan (SLCSP) premium, and advance payments of the premium tax credit. This information is necessary to accurately complete Form 8962, Premium Tax Credit, when you file your federal income tax return.
Where Does Form 1095-A Come From?
Form 1095-A is sent directly to you by the Health Insurance Marketplace from which you purchased your health coverage. This means if you enrolled through HealthCare.gov or a state-run marketplace, they are responsible for providing you with this form. It is typically available online through your Marketplace account and may also be mailed to your address on file.
How to Get Your Form 1095-A: Step-by-Step Guide
If you are wondering, “where do I get my 1095 a form?”, here are the primary ways to access it:
1. Online Marketplace Account:
The quickest and easiest way to get your Form 1095-A is usually through your online Health Insurance Marketplace account.
- Log in to your Marketplace account: Go to the website where you purchased your health insurance (e.g., HealthCare.gov or your state marketplace).
- Navigate to your forms or documents section: Look for sections like “Tax Forms,” “Documents,” or “Messages.” The exact navigation may vary slightly depending on the marketplace.
- Download or view Form 1095-A: Your Form 1095-A should be available to download or view as a PDF.
2. By Mail:
Marketplaces are also expected to mail a paper copy of Form 1095-A to you by January 31st of each year. Ensure your mailing address is up-to-date with the Marketplace to receive it promptly.
What to Do If You Don’t Receive Form 1095-A
If you purchased coverage through the Marketplace and haven’t received your Form 1095-A by mid-February, here’s what you should do:
- Contact the Marketplace: Reach out directly to the Health Insurance Marketplace where you obtained your coverage. You can usually find contact information on their website. Explain that you need to obtain your Form 1095-A.
- Wait to File Your Taxes: It’s crucial to wait until you receive your Form 1095-A before filing your taxes. This form is essential for accurately calculating any premium tax credit you may be entitled to or for reconciling advance payments. Filing without it could lead to errors or delays in processing your return.
What if Your Form 1095-A is Incorrect?
Mistakes can happen. If you review your Form 1095-A and believe any information is incorrect, take these steps:
- Contact the Marketplace immediately: Get in touch with the Marketplace to report the error. They are responsible for issuing corrections.
- Request a corrected Form 1095-A: Clearly explain what information is incorrect and request that they issue a corrected Form 1095-A.
- Wait for the corrected form: Do not proceed with filing your taxes until you receive the corrected Form 1095-A.
Corrected or Voided Form 1095-A: What to Do
Sometimes, you might receive a corrected or voided Form 1095-A after you’ve already filed your taxes. In this case:
- Assess if you need to amend your return: Review the corrected or voided form and compare it to the information you used when filing. If there are significant changes, especially to the premium tax credit calculation, you may need to amend your tax return using Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return.
- Refer to IRS guidance: The IRS provides resources on Corrected, Incorrect, or Voided Forms 1095-A to help you determine if an amended return is necessary.
Understanding the Second Lowest Cost Silver Plan (SLCSP)
Form 1095-A includes information about the Second Lowest Cost Silver Plan (SLCSP). This might seem confusing, but it’s important for calculating your premium tax credit.
- SLCSP and Premium Tax Credit: The SLCSP premium is a benchmark used to calculate the premium tax credit. It’s not necessarily the plan you enrolled in but is used to determine the amount of financial assistance you’re eligible for.
- Location and Family Changes: If you experienced changes in family size or moved during the year without updating the Marketplace, the SLCSP premium on your Form 1095-A might be inaccurate for some months. In such cases, you may need to determine the correct SLCSP premium using resources like IRS Publication 974, Premium Tax Credit (PTC) or the Health Coverage Tax Tool on HealthCare.gov.
Why You Might Receive Multiple Forms 1095-A
It’s possible to receive more than one Form 1095-A. This can happen if:
- Household members have different plans: If family members are not all enrolled in the same health insurance plan.
- You updated family information: Changes in your family situation during the year might result in multiple forms.
- You switched plans: If you changed health plans during the year.
- Family members in different states: If family members are enrolled through different state marketplaces.
Handling Multiple Forms 1095-A
If you receive multiple Forms 1095-A, it’s crucial to use all of them when completing Form 8962.
- Forms for different months: If the forms cover different months, you’ll need to enter the information for each corresponding month on Form 8962.
- Forms for the same month: If you receive multiple forms covering the same month, consult the instructions for Form 8962 for guidance on how to proceed.
IRS Letters and Form 1095-A
You don’t need to send Form 1095-A to the IRS when you file your tax return. However, the IRS uses the information from Form 1095-A and Form 8962 to verify your premium tax credit.
- 12C Letter from IRS: Sometimes, the IRS might send you a letter, often called a 12C letter, requesting more information or clarification about your premium tax credit claim. This letter might ask for a copy of your Form 1095-A to verify the information on Form 8962.
- Respond to IRS requests: If you receive a letter from the IRS, respond promptly and provide the requested information, including a copy of Form 1095-A if asked. This will help avoid delays in processing your refund.
Other Health Coverage Forms: 1095-B and 1095-C
Besides Form 1095-A, you might also receive Form 1095-B and Form 1095-C. It’s important to understand the differences:
- Form 1095-B: Provides information about your health coverage if you had insurance from sources other than the Marketplace, like directly from an insurance company, government programs (like Medicaid or CHIP in some cases), or other sources. You generally don’t need this to reconcile the premium tax credit.
- Form 1095-C: Relates to employer-provided health insurance. If you were offered health coverage by an employer, you might receive Form 1095-C. This form is mainly for informational purposes.
Key Differences: Form 1095-A is specifically for Marketplace plans and is essential for the premium tax credit. Forms 1095-B and 1095-C serve different informational purposes.
Need More Help?
Navigating tax forms can be complex. Here are resources for further assistance:
- Health Insurance Marketplace: Your Marketplace can assist with issues related to Form 1095-A, such as obtaining a copy or correcting errors. Visit HealthCare.gov or your state marketplace website.
- IRS Resources: The IRS website (IRS.gov) offers comprehensive information on the premium tax credit and Form 1095-A, including FAQs and publications.
- Tax Preparation Software: Using tax software can simplify the process of filing your return and claiming the premium tax credit. It guides you through Form 8962 and helps ensure accuracy. IRS Free File is available for eligible taxpayers.
- Professional Tax Assistance: Consider seeking help from a qualified tax professional for personalized advice and assistance. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) are free options for those who qualify.
Conclusion
Understanding where do I get my 1095 a form and how to use it is crucial for anyone who has Marketplace health insurance and wants to claim the premium tax credit. By accessing your form through your Marketplace account or mail, understanding its contents, and knowing what to do if issues arise, you can confidently navigate tax season and ensure you receive any tax benefits you are entitled to. Remember to always wait for your Form 1095-A before filing and to seek assistance if you have any questions or concerns.
