What is Minimum Essential Coverage?

Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) is health insurance that meets the Affordable Care Act's requirement for having health coverage. Plans that qualify as MEC include employer-sponsored coverage, individual market policies, Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, TRICARE, and certain other government-sponsored programs. Having MEC exempts individuals from tax penalties in states that still enforce individual mandates and ensures coverage for essential health benefits.

Why minimum essential coverage matters

• Meets legal requirements: Satisfies ACA and state mandate requirements where applicable
• Provides basic protection: Ensures coverage for essential health benefits
• Qualifies for subsidies: Makes individuals eligible for premium tax credits when appropriate

How Solace can help

A Solace advocate can help you determine if your current insurance qualifies as minimum essential coverage, explore MEC options if you need coverage, and understand the implications for tax filing and subsidy eligibility. Advocates can also assist with enrollment in qualifying plans.