What is the penalty for not having health insurance in 2027?

There is no federal penalty for not having health insurance. The federal tax penalty was reduced to $0 starting in 2019. However, certain states and jurisdictions have their own health insurance mandates.

States with their own individual mandate

• California
• District of Columbia
• Massachusetts
• New Jersey
• Rhode Island
• Vermont

If you live in one of these places and go uninsured, you may owe a state penalty when you file your state taxes.

Other costs of going uninsured

Without coverage you pay the full cost of any medical care, and you can generally only enroll during open enrollment (November 1, 2026 to January 15, 2027 on HealthCare.gov) or after a qualifying life event.

Educational use only. State rules change; check with your state’s tax agency or exchange.