Jump Links
The IRS 1095-A form plays a crucial role in the health insurance landscape, particularly for those who purchased coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace. It serves as an important document for taxpayers, supplying essential information about health insurance policies. The form includes details such as the names of covered individuals, the months they were covered, and the amount of premium tax credits received. Understanding how to read and use this form is key to accurately completing your tax return. If you received premium assistance, this form is indispensable for claiming your credits and ensuring compliance with federal tax laws. Mistakes in reporting can lead to financial penalties or delays in processing your return. Therefore, grasping the specifics of Form 1095-A ensures a smoother tax filing experience. Whether you're filing taxes for the first time or are a seasoned pro, knowing the ins and outs of the 1095-A can save you both time and money.
IRS 1095-A Example
CAUTION: NOT FOR FILING
Form
Health Insurance Marketplaces use Form
Form
Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service
Health Insurance Marketplace Statement
Do not attach to your tax return. Keep for your records. 
Go to www.irs.gov/Form1095A for instructions and the latest information.
VOID
CORRECTED
OMB No.
2020
Part I Recipient Information
1Marketplace identifier
2
3Policy issuer’s name
4Recipient’s name
5Recipient’s SSN
6Recipient’s date of birth
7Recipient’s spouse’s name
8Recipient’s spouse’s SSN
9Recipient’s spouse’s date of birth
10Policy start date
11Policy termination date
12Street address (including apartment no.)
13City or town
14State or province
15Country and ZIP or foreign postal code
Part II Covered Individuals
A. Covered individual name
B. Covered individual SSN
C. Covered individual
date of birth
D. Coverage start date
E. Coverage termination date
16
17
18
19
20
Part III Coverage Information
|
Month |
A. Monthly enrollment premiums |
B. Monthly second lowest cost silver |
C. Monthly advance payment of |
|
|
plan (SLCSP) premium |
premium tax credit |
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
|
|
|
21 |
January |
|
|
|
22 |
February |
|
|
|
23 |
March |
|
|
|
24 |
April |
|
|
|
25 |
May |
|
|
|
26 |
June |
|
|
|
27 |
July |
|
|
|
28 |
August |
|
|
|
29 |
September |
|
|
|
30 |
October |
|
|
|
31 |
November |
|
|
|
32 |
December |
|
|
|
33 |
Annual Totals |
|
|
|
For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see separate instructions. |
Cat. No. 60703Q |
Form |
Form |
Page 2 |
Instructions for Recipient
You received this Form
Form 8962 and file it with your tax return (Form 1040, Form
Additional information. For additional information about the tax provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), including the premium tax credit, see
VOID box. If the “VOID” box is checked at the top of the form, you previously received a Form
CORRECTED box. If the “CORRECTED” box is checked at the top of the form, use the information on this Form
Part I. Recipient Information, lines
Line 1. This line identifies the state where you enrolled in coverage through the Marketplace.
Line 2. This line is the policy number assigned by the Marketplace to identify the policy in which you enrolled. If you are completing Part IV of Form 8962, enter this number on line 30, 31, 32, or 33, box a.
Line 3. This is the name of the insurance company that issued your policy.
Line 4. You are the recipient because you are the person the Marketplace identified at enrollment who is expected to file a tax return and who, if qualified, would take the premium tax credit for the year of coverage.
Line 5. This is your social security number. For your protection, this form may show only the last four digits. However, the Marketplace has reported your complete social security number to the IRS.
Line 6. A date of birth will be entered if there is no social security number on line 5.
Lines 7, 8, and 9. Information about your spouse will be entered only if advance credit payments were made for your coverage. The date of birth will be entered on line 9 only if line 8 is blank.
Lines 10 and 11. These are the starting and ending dates of the policy.
Lines 12 through 15. Your address is entered on these lines.
Part II. Covered Individuals, lines
If advance credit payments are made, the only individuals listed on Form
If advance credit payments are made and you certify that one or more enrolled individuals aren’t individuals who would be in your tax family for the year of coverage, your Form
If advance credit payments weren’t made and you didn’t identify at enrollment the individuals who would be in your tax family for the year of coverage, Form
If there are more than 5 individuals covered by a policy, you will receive one or more additional Forms
Part III. Coverage Information, lines
Column A. This column is the monthly premiums for the plan in which you or family members were enrolled, including premiums that you paid and premiums that were paid through advance payments of the premium tax credit. If you or a family member enrolled in a separate dental plan with pediatric benefits, this column includes the portion of the dental plan premiums for the pediatric benefits. If your plan covered benefits that aren’t essential health benefits, such as adult dental or vision benefits, the amount in this column will be reduced by the premiums for the nonessential benefits. If the policy was terminated by your insurance company due to nonpayment of premiums for one or more months, then a
Column B. This column is the monthly premium for the second lowest cost silver plan (SLCSP) that the Marketplace has determined applies to members of your family enrolled in the coverage. The applicable SLCSP premium is used to compute your monthly advance credit payments and the premium tax credit you take on your return. See the instructions for Form 8962, Part II, on how to use the information in this column or how to complete Form 8962 if there is no information entered. If the policy was terminated by your insurance company due to nonpayment of premiums for one or more months, then a
Column C. This column is the monthly amount of advance credit payments that were made to your insurance company on your behalf to pay for all or part of the premiums for your coverage. If this is the only column in Part III that is filled in with an amount other than zero for a month, it means your policy was terminated by your insurance company due to nonpayment of premiums, and you aren’t entitled to take the premium tax credit for that month when you file your tax return. You still must reconcile the entire advance payment that was paid on your behalf for that month using Form 8962. No information will be entered in this column if no advance credit payments were made.
Lines
File Breakdown
| Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|
| What is Form 1095-A? | The IRS 1095-A form is a tax document used to report information about your health insurance coverage obtained through the Health Insurance Marketplace. |
| Who Receives Form 1095-A? | Individuals who purchased health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace will receive Form 1095-A from the Marketplace. |
| Why is Form 1095-A Important? | Form 1095-A is necessary for taxpayers to complete their federal income tax returns accurately, especially for claiming any premium tax credits. |
| What Information is Included? | The form includes details such as the months of coverage, premium amounts, and the number of individuals covered under the plan. |
| Who Files Form 1095-A? | Taxpayers do not file Form 1095-A with their tax return; it is used to fill out other forms like Form 8962 for premium tax credits. |
| State-Specific Forms | Some states have their own versions of Form 1095-A. Consult your state’s department of revenue for specific requirements and laws governing state forms. |
| When Should You Receive It? | You should receive Form 1095-A by January 31st of the year following the coverage year, to ensure timely filing of taxes. |
| What If There Are Errors? | Contact the Health Insurance Marketplace immediately if there are errors on your Form 1095-A, as this could affect your tax return. |
| Tax Filing Impact | Not having Form 1095-A can complicate your tax filing process. Ensure you have it to avoid issues with the IRS. |
| Future Years | Form 1095-A requirements may change yearly, depending on adjustments to tax laws and health care regulations. Stay informed! |
Guide to Using IRS 1095-A
Once you have gathered the necessary information, it's important to fill out the IRS 1095-A form correctly. This document captures vital details regarding your health coverage and will be needed for your tax return. Following the steps carefully ensures that you complete the form accurately.
- Obtain a copy of the IRS 1095-A form. You can download it from the IRS website or receive it from your health insurance provider.
- Locate the top section of the form to fill in your personal information. Include your name, address, and other identifying details as required.
- Find the section that lists your health insurance coverage. Identify each coverage period and ensure you have accurate dates of coverage.
- Enter the Marketplace-assigned Policy Number for each insurance plan you had during the year. This number is critical for tax purposes.
- Fill in the premiums for the coverage. It’s important to report the total monthly premiums accurately to avoid discrepancies.
- List the number of individuals covered under your plan. This includes all dependents who were enrolled in your insurance policy.
- Complete any additional sections as required on the form, ensuring you double-check your entries for accuracy.
- Sign and date the form in the designated area once all information is complete and verified.
After filling out the 1095-A form, keep a copy for your records. You will refer to this document when preparing your tax return, ensuring that the information aligns with IRS requirements. Filing this form accurately can help avoid delays in processing your return or receiving your refund.
Get Answers on IRS 1095-A
- Your name, address, and Social Security number.
- The details of the health insurance plan you enrolled in.
- The number of months you were covered.
- The premium amounts for the coverage.
- Any premium tax credits applied to your coverage.
What is the IRS 1095-A form?
The IRS 1095-A form is a document provided to individuals who enrolled in a health insurance plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace. It shows the months of coverage you had, the premiums you paid, and any premium tax credits you may have received.
Who receives a 1095-A form?
Individuals and families who purchased health insurance through the Marketplace receive this form. If you had coverage through your employer or Medicare, you will not receive a 1095-A form.
What information is included on the 1095-A form?
The 1095-A form includes the following information:
How do I use the 1095-A form when filing taxes?
You will use the information on your 1095-A form to complete Form 8962, Premium Tax Credit, when filing your federal income tax return. It's essential to ensure the information matches to avoid delays or errors in processing your return.
What if I don't receive my 1095-A form?
If you don't receive your 1095-A form by the end of January following the tax year, contact the Marketplace where you purchased your insurance. They can send you a copy or provide the information needed to access it online.
What should I do if the information on my 1095-A is incorrect?
Review your 1095-A form carefully. If you find any discrepancies, such as wrong amounts or incorrect coverage details, reach out to the Marketplace promptly. They can issue a corrected form so your tax return is accurate.
Can I get a copy of the 1095-A form after I have filed my taxes?
Yes, you can obtain a copy of your 1095-A form even after you have filed your taxes. Contact the Marketplace to request a duplicate, or check your online account if you registered for one.
Do I need the 1095-A form to file my taxes?
You do need the 1095-A form to accurately complete your tax return if you received premium tax credits. Without it, you may not be able to claim these credits or verify your health coverage, which could lead to tax issues.
What happens if I don’t report my 1095-A form information?
Failing to report your 1095-A information can result in penalties or adjustments to your tax refund. The IRS uses the information to ensure compliance with the Affordable Care Act rules. Reporting accurately helps avoid any avoidable issues.
Common mistakes
Filling out the IRS 1095-A form can be a daunting task for many individuals, particularly those navigating health insurance coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Numerous mistakes can arise during this process, leading to complications in tax filings and potential penalties. Here are ten common errors that can occur.
One of the most frequent mistakes is misreporting coverage dates. It's essential to accurately reflect the period during which the insurance was active. Incorrect dates can lead to confusion and may even affect eligibility for premium tax credits.
Secondly, individuals sometimes omit information about dependents. The 1095-A form requires details on family members covered under the plan. Missing this information can lead to underreporting and, consequently, underpaying taxes owed.
Another common error is the failure to check the Marketplace coverage type. The form provides different codes for various types of plans. Selecting the wrong code can result in improper tax filings and potential scrutiny from the IRS.
People also often overlook double-checking the Social Security numbers for accuracy. A small typo can lead to significant issues, including delays in processing tax returns. It is crucial to ensure all numbers are correct to avoid headaches later on.
Miscommunication with the insurance provider can result in incorrect reporting of premiums. It’s important to verify the amount listed on the form matches what was actually paid to avoid discrepancies that could affect tax credits.
Additionally, individuals might misunderstand their eligibility for subsidy calculations. This can lead to inaccurate reporting of income. Proper understanding and documentation of household income is vital for determining the correct amount of aid received.
Some filers also mistakenly assume they don’t need the 1095-A form if they didn't receive it. In fact, if coverage was obtained through the Marketplace, this form is necessary for tax filing, regardless of receipt.
It's not uncommon for people to neglect to file electronically. While not mandatory, e-filing can simplify error-checking and submission, reducing the risk of mistakes that occur with paper forms.
Moreover, overlooking the importance of keeping accurate records is a major error. Failing to retain copies of the 1095-A and other related documents can lead to challenges in case of an IRS audit.
Finally, individuals may not seek assistance when needed. Not consulting with a tax professional can prevent one from making informed decisions regarding the completion of the form and understanding tax implications. Seeking guidance can save time, stress, and potential penalties.
Documents used along the form
The IRS 1095-A form is an important document that provides information about your health insurance coverage obtained through the Marketplace. When filing your taxes, you may need to refer to additional forms and documents that complement this form to ensure proper reporting and potential benefits. Below is a concise list of these related documents.
- IRS Form 8962: This form is crucial for claiming the Premium Tax Credit. It helps you reconcile the amount of advance payment of the premium tax credit you received with your actual credit based on your income and family size.
- IRS Form 1040: Your main tax return form. You will report your overall income, including any Premium Tax Credit you've calculated on Form 8962. It's the comprehensive document where all your tax-related information comes together.
- IRS Form 1095-B: This form provides proof of health coverage, typically issued by health insurance providers. It's not always required for filing taxes, but it may be needed to establish that you had minimum essential coverage.
- IRS Form 1095-C: This is issued by large employers and provides information on the health insurance offered to employees. If you receive health insurance through your employer, this form may be relevant for your tax filing.
Having these forms on hand will simplify your tax preparation and ensure you receive any credits or deductions you are entitled to. Remember, if you’re unsure about which forms you need or how to fill them out, seeking assistance from a tax professional can be tremendously helpful.
Similar forms
IRS Form 1095-B: This document is issued by health insurance providers to confirm the existence of minimum essential coverage for you and your family. Similar to Form 1095-A, it provides essential information required for filing taxes, ensuring you meet health coverage requirements.
IRS Form 1095-C: Employers with 50 or more full-time employees must provide this form to their employees. It states whether health insurance was offered to the employee and details the coverage. Like Form 1095-A, it helps both the taxpayer and the IRS verify health coverage compliance.
IRS Form W-2: Widely used for reporting wages and tax withholding, this form can also include information about healthcare coverage provided by employers. Both forms work together by ensuring that taxpayers have accurate records of their income and coverage when filing taxes.
IRS Form 1099: This form reports various types of income other than wages, salaries, and tips. While it focuses on income reporting, it serves a similar purpose to Form 1095-A in that it provides crucial data needed when preparing annual tax returns.
Health Coverage Exemption Certificate: Issued by the Marketplace, this certificate confirms an individual’s eligibility for a health coverage exemption. While not an IRS form, it relates to coverage for tax purposes, akin to how Form 1095-A outlines information for those purchasing insurance through the Marketplace.
Dos and Don'ts
When completing the IRS 1095-A form, it's important to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here are nine things to consider:
- Do verify that your personal information, including names and Social Security numbers, is correct.
- Do confirm that the coverage start and end dates are accurately reported.
- Do check the premium amounts listed for accuracy.
- Do ensure that the covered individuals are listed correctly.
- Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records.
- Don't leave any sections blank; provide all required information.
- Don't use outdated or incorrect information from previous forms.
- Don't underestimate the importance of reviewing your data before submission.
- Don't forget to file the form with your tax return as required.
Misconceptions
The IRS 1095-A form is an important document for those who purchased health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace. However, several misconceptions can lead to confusion. Below are ten common misconceptions about the form, along with clarifications.
- Only low-income individuals receive a 1095-A: Anyone who enrolls in a health plan through the Marketplace, regardless of income, will receive this form.
- 1095-A is optional: This form is required for filing your tax return if you received premium tax credits or have health coverage through the Marketplace.
- Filing taxes without 1095-A is acceptable: Not having this form can delay your tax return process and any potential refunds.
- 1095-A provides information on all types of health insurance: The form only pertains to coverage obtained through the Health Insurance Marketplace and does not apply to employer-sponsored plans or other types of insurance.
- The figures on the 1095-A are the same for everyone: The information varies based on each individual's coverage, premium amounts, and eligibility for subsidies.
- You can ignore incorrect information on the 1095-A: It’s crucial to review the form carefully and address any errors with the Marketplace, as they can affect your tax return.
- Receiving a 1095-A guarantees you will receive a refund: This form does not guarantee a tax refund; it only helps determine your eligibility for premium tax credits.
- It is the only form you need for health coverage: You may also require forms 1095-B or 1095-C, depending on the source of your health insurance.
- Once received, the 1095-A cannot be amended: If there are errors, you can request a corrected form from the Marketplace.
- You do not need to keep your 1095-A: It's important to retain this form for your records, in case of future IRS inquiries.
Understanding these points can help ensure that you handle your taxes correctly and take full advantage of your health insurance benefits.
Key takeaways
The IRS 1095-A form is used to report details about health insurance coverage obtained through the Health Insurance Marketplace.
Individuals must receive a 1095-A form if they or a family member enrolled in a Marketplace plan during the year.
This form provides essential information for filling out your federal income tax return, particularly for determining premium tax credits.
It is crucial to verify the information on the form before submitting your tax return. Any errors can delay processing.
Keep your 1095-A form with your tax records in case of future audits or tax-related inquiries.