The Affordable Care Act ("Obamacare") went into effect two weeks ago and there's still a whole lot about it that needs explaining. No wonder. The bill was 2,409 pages of government-ese and it's doubtful that anyone in Congress read the entire bill before voting for its passage.
Baby Boomers are the largest single demographic group affected by the sweeping new legislation. Since there's no way we can cover ALL of the intricacies of this legislation, we decided to narrow it down to five things you need to know right now.
1. Pre-existing conditions are covered.
You're guaranteed coverage even if you have pre-existing health problems. You also won't be charged more.
2. Get help finding the plan for you.
It's up to you to take charge and get help. Find an insurance agent or navigator to help you pick your plan. A good place to start is the government's Affordable Care Act website.
3. Know your tax subsidy number.
A tax subsidy is the money the government decides you qualify for to help you pay for health insurance.
As an example, if you make $45,000 a year you'll get a $1,600 tax credit to pay for your insurance. Here's a handy calculator to help you figure out your tax subsidy number, but there are plenty of other online tax tools that can assist you as well.
4. Know your options if you want to retire early or change careers.
Retiring early or changing careers could now be an option to Baby Boomers. Now, you don't have to worry about pre-existing conditions and finding health care. If you're a Baby Boomer, this could allow you to take a second look at your career path.
5. Stay put?
You don't need to worry about these changes if you're insured through your work, or if you're 65 or older and on Medicare. If you don't get insurance through your work or the government, you will need to buy insurance or pay a penalty. That open enrollment deadline is March 31 of 2014.
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Prepare your own Mexican quick fix with this Chipotle-inspired bowl. Carbs are moderated by filling the bowl with beans, extra veggies and chicken. No need for rice, since the beans count as carbs.
Tips:
If you love tomatoes, increase the quantity to 1/2 cup, but note that the carbohydrates will also increase.
If preparing this recipe for one person, cut all of the ingredients in half. Or simply prepare the full recipe up to the end of step 2 and store leftover chicken and vegetable-bean mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave on High for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through, and continue with step 3.
Health Bite: The iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc in black beans help to keep bones strong and healthy.
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and @CharlotteBoomer
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