Most people don’t need to submit proof of health insurance when filing a federal tax return. The IRS doesn’t require it, and there’s no federal penalty for not having coverage.
However, Form 1095-A is an important exception. If you had health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace, you’ll need this form to complete your return.
You may also receive other 1095 forms, but they usually don’t need to be entered.
Which 1095 forms matter?
Here’s how the different 1095 forms affect your tax return:
Form 1095-A (this one usually matters)
You’ll receive Form 1095-A if you had health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace under the Affordable Care Act.
This form shows:
The coverage you had, and
The premiums paid for your plan
If you receive Form 1095-A, you may be eligible for the Premium Tax Credit (PTC). This credit helps lower the cost of Marketplace health insurance and must be calculated on your tax return.
Because of this, Form 1095-A needs to be entered when you file.
Forms 1095-B and 1095-C (usually not required)
You may also receive:
These forms provide information about health coverage, but they usually don’t need to be entered on your federal tax return.
You don’t need to include them unless you’re specifically asked.
Do any states still require proof of health insurance?
Yes. Even though the IRS no longer requires proof of coverage, some states and jurisdictions still do.
These include:
California
Massachusetts
New Jersey
Rhode Island
Vermont
Washington, D.C.
If you live in one of these areas, you may need to confirm health coverage when filing your state tax return. For details, check your state’s tax website or contact your state tax agency.
What if I have more than one Form 1095-A?
If you have more than one Form 1095-A (for example, if your coverage changed during the year), you’ll need to combine the information before entering it:
Add up the monthly numbers from each form
Round the total to the nearest whole dollar
Enter this combined amount in the insurance section—don’t enter each form separately
This helps make sure your health insurance information is reported correctly and avoids processing issues when you file.
Key takeaway
You don’t need to submit proof of health insurance for your federal tax return, but you may still receive a 1095 form depending on your coverage. If you had Marketplace insurance, Form 1095-A is especially important for determining eligibility for the Premium Tax Credit.
State rules can be different, so it’s worth checking local requirements.
This content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as tax, legal, financial, accounting, or other advice. Rules and regulations vary by location and are subject to change, so please consult with an expert if you need advice specific to you.
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