Premium Tax Credit — PTC
The Premium Tax Credit lowers monthly health insurance premiums on the ACA Marketplace. You can take it in advance or claim it at tax time.
Official source: irs.gov
The Premium Tax Credit helps people pay for health insurance. This credit lowers your monthly payment if you buy health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace. It makes health insurance more affordable for many families. You can get help paying for your insurance each month, or you can get the money back when you do your taxes. It's your choice. Some people get the money ahead of time to lower their monthly bill. Others pay their full bill each month and then get the credit back as a refund when they file their taxes. The Premium Tax Credit is for people who buy their own health insurance. It is for people who do not get health insurance from a job or from programs like Medicare or Medicaid. You must also have an income that is within certain limits. These limits change each year. The Premium Tax Credit matters because it helps families afford health insurance. Health insurance can be expensive. This credit can make it much easier to protect your family's health without spending too much money. It helps make sure more people can get the care they need. If you think you might be able to get this credit, visit <a href="/glossary/aca-marketplace">Healthcare.gov</a>. You can learn more about how to sign up for health insurance and how to get help paying for it.
In real life
- A family receives a monthly Premium Tax Credit that cuts their ACA plan premium in half.
- Maria uses the Premium Tax Credit to get health insurance for her and her child for much less money each month.
- When John filed his taxes, he got a bigger refund because he claimed the Premium Tax Credit he didn't use earlier in the year.
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Frequently asked questions about Premium Tax Credit
What is Premium Tax Credit?+
The Premium Tax Credit lowers monthly health insurance premiums on the ACA Marketplace. You can take it in advance or claim it at tax time.
Who qualifies for Premium Tax Credit?+
Workers and families who meet the credit's income limits and filing rules. You generally need to file a tax return to claim it, even if you don't owe tax.
How do I apply for Premium Tax Credit?+
Claim it on your federal tax return (Form 1040). Free filing help is available through IRS Free File and VITA sites. Official forms and instructions: https://www.irs.gov/affordable-care-act/individuals-and-families/the-premium-tax-credit-the-basics.
Where can I get help?+
IRS Free File at irs.gov/freefile and free VITA tax help sites can walk you through the credit at no cost. Veterans can use MilTax for free.
Source: irs.gov