If you’ve ever shopped for health insurance, you’ve probably noticed Catastrophic health plans — the low-premium, high-deductible plans designed to protect you from worst-case medical bills.

And if you’re over 30, you may have also noticed something else:

You can’t just sign up for one.

Most people assume these plans are only for those under 30, but that’s not the whole story.
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) allows older adults to qualify for Catastrophic coverage — if they meet certain affordability or hardship exemptions.

Why Choose a Catastrophic Plan?

Catastrophic plans aren’t for everyone, but they can be the right choice if:

• You want low monthly premiums.

• You rarely use medical services but want protection from a major accident or illness.

• You’re willing to pay a high deductible if you need care.

They cover essential health benefits and include three primary care visits per year at no cost before you meet your deductible.

How to Qualify After Age 30

To enroll after your 30th birthday, you’ll need an exemption approved by the federal government. The two main ways are:

Affordability Exemption

You may qualify if:

• The lowest-price Bronze plan in your area costs more than 9.02% of your household income (for 2025), or

• Your job-based health insurance costs more than 9.02% of your income (different rules apply for employees vs. dependents).

Hardship Exemption

You may qualify if you’ve experienced a recognized hardship, such as:

• Loss of coverage.

• Facing eviction or foreclosure.

• Medical debt from necessary care.

• Other serious financial or life challenges.

The Application Process

It’s not automatic — you must apply through HealthCare.gov:

1. Complete the Affordability or Hardship Exemption Form.

2. Provide proof of your income or hardship.

3. Mail your application to:

If approved, you’ll receive an Exemption Certificate Number (ECN) — which you’ll enter when applying for coverage so you can choose a Catastrophic plan.

Why Work With an Insurance Agent for This?

The exemption rules can be tricky, especially when calculating your income or navigating the paperwork. That’s where my team comes in:

• We help determine if you qualify.

• We guide you through the application process.

• We compare your Catastrophic plan options with other low-cost Marketplace plans — so you can choose what’s best for you.

📞 Call us at 904-654-5450
💻 Visit MereBenefits.com

Let’s find out if a Catastrophic plan is the right fit for your budget and health needs. #simplyforyourbenefit