Westminster School District
Memorandum
TO: All WSD Full-Time, Part-Time and Substitute Employees
FROM: Tony Wold, Ed.D.
Assistant Superintendent, Business Services
DATE: September 28, 2017
RE: Health Insurance Marketplace
Starting in January 2014, under the Affordable Care Act, individuals are required to have minimum essential health insurance or be subject to a penalty. The Health Insurance Marketplace has been established for individuals and families, who do not qualify for medical benefits through their workplace to find options for health insurance.
Attached is the Exchange Notice that gives a basic explanation of coverage options available through the health insurance marketplace. You can also visit coveredca.com for more details. As an individual, if you currently receive medical benefits through the District, you are not eligible to enroll in these plans.
The Exchange Notice and other information on the Marketplace can be found on our District website under the Staff tab by clicking on Benefits Information.
If you are currently enrolled in a healthcare plan, you do not have to purchase insurance through the Marketplace to avoid potential penalties on your taxes. In 2017, the penalty will be 2.5 percent of annual household income, or $695 for each adult and $347.50 per child under 18 for family members that do not have insurance (up to a maximum of $2,085), whichever is greater. For example, if you are an uninsured married family of 4 with a household income of $45,000, the penalty would be $2,085 ($695 x 2 +$347.50 x 2), which is greater than $1,125 (2.5 percent x $45,000). The penalty will increase in future years.
This is a new approach to health care and we are learning as more information becomes available. We will do our best to assist you as we navigate through these new options for health insurance. If you have any questions, please visit our District website at www.wsdk8.us or email Tina Gestoso at .