[quote=no_such_reality][quote=SK in CV][quote=spdrun]The real question is “why was the Obamacare law written in such a fucking boneheadedly stupid fashion?”
Instead of making subsidies end at 400% of FPL, they should have gradually tapered subsidies to zero depending on family income, number of dependents, etc[/quote]
It is gradually tapered.[/quote]
Not really, at 299% of FPL, you get a $986/month Tax credit, at 399%, you get $863/month credit, at 400% FPL, you get $0.
IOW, two 64 year olds making $62,039/year get a $863/month credit where as those same two at $62,040/yr, get $0/month credit.
The benefits taper much better in the 100% to 200% FPL range, but a quick cliff shows up at the higher ages for 400% and it’s a $5000-$7000/year difference.[/quote]
Regardless whether an applicant can qualify for any subsidies at all, Covered CA premiums are HUGE improvement from what the individual plans are currently charging. I know a 62 yo female in SD who is in GREAT shape and currently paying over $1100 mo for indiv coverage. She will undoubtedly do MUCH BETTER on the exchange.
Other states premiums are lower than CoveredCA, but they do not necessarily correlate to a state’s perceived level of cost of living. Since the carriers themselves did the pricing, the exchange pricing is based upon the usage level of the various age groups in different states. For example, some states have a much higher percentage of lifetime smokers than does CA and also higher levels of obesity, diabetes and heart disease due to regional diets and cultural habits and traditions.
