About 17 percent of the Minnesota's 18- to 34- year-olds are uninsured, according to an analysis by the Washington, D.C.-based public policy group Young Invincibles. Getting young healthy people signed up for insurance coverage will be important to keeping premiums low for everyone.
The carrot:
Federal tax credits can ease the cost of premiums to those who qualify, and more people will be eligible for government health plans starting next year.
Medical Assistance: Up to $15,282 for individuals or $20,628 for a family of two
MinnesotaCare: Up to $22,980 for individuals; $31,020 for two
Tax credits: Up to $45,960 for individuals; $62,040 for couples
The stick:
Anyone who doesn't have insurance by March 31, 2014, will have to pay a fine, no matter their age. In 2014, the penalty will $95 or 1 percent of household income, whichever is higher. It rises to $325 or 2 percent of income in 2015 and $695 or 2.5 percent in 2016.
