March 31 health law deadline questions answered

Pioneer Press: Penalties In Place For Those Without Health Insurance 
he federal Affordable Care Act calls for penalties on people who don't have "minimum essential coverage," which is a standard that's defined in the law. Penalties for people who lack minimum essential coverage this year will be assessed on taxes filed during 2015. For most people, there is no impact from the federal health law on taxes being filed this spring, according to the IRS. Some people could be exempt from penalties, including those with incomes below $10,150 (Snowbeck, 3/22).

St. Louis Post-Dispatch: Insurance Penalty More Than Many Expect
If you think not having health insurance will mean paying a simple $95 fine, you might be wrong. Because for most people, it's more complicated than that -- and potentially more expensive. ... For example, if you and your spouse have two children, your family's uninsured, and you file taxes jointly, you face a tax penalty of at least $285 (Kulash, 3/23).

The Oregonian: As Final Deadline Looms, Oregonians May Face A Tax Penalty For Lack Of Health Coverage
The state of Oregon is considering a special enrollment period to effectively extend the deadline to sign up for insurance. But that doesn't necessarily mean the federal government won't charge a tax penalty to those who don't apply before March 31. ... Adding a wrinkle to the deadline push is that consumers should expect delays in getting help to sign up. The last-minute frenzy is "unbelievable," said agent Rick Skayhan of Leonard Adams Insurance in Portland" (Budnick, 3/21).

And for those who still have not bought a plan --

Los Angeles Times: Tips For Last-Minute Obamacare Shopping 
If you don't have health insurance and want it, now is the time to act. The deadline to sign up for coverage under Obamacare is fast approaching. Experts have many suggestions. Some recommendations are as easy as calling the state insurance exchange, insurers, insurance brokers or one of many enrollment counselors hired to help you. But have patience. It could involve a long wait. Here are things to consider (Zamosky, 3/23).

NPR: Final Call For Questions On Health Insurance As Deadline Looms 
[W]hile previous deadlines have been a little fluid, the Obama administration, including the president himself, has been firm that this deadline is really the deadline. This affects not just the health exchanges. After March 31 you won't be able to buy individual health insurance at all unless you have some special circumstance during the year, such as losing your job, getting married or moving. If you miss the deadline you will have to wait until the next open enrollment period (Rovner, 3/24).