What is the real FPL number?

[timmar]

While doing the first pass of our 2015 taxes to see what I need to do for the rest of this year, I saw an interesting item. All government websites, Medicaid included, show 2014 Federal poverty levels different than IRS Form 8962. The 2015 draft 8962 is also different from other sources.

For our family of 10, the difference in 100% FPL is $1,000. Obviously as the various multiples of FPL come into play, that number gets bigger.

Of course I will use the IRS numbers on my taxes, but does anyone have insight into why the numbers are different?

 

[photoguy]

I'd like to know the answer to this too because I've seen at least 3 different numbers for the 2015 benefit year even on the same government site.

For example, CoveredCA has it listed at $11,490, $11,670, and $11,770 in different places for 2015 (FPL for 1 in lower 48).

I believe that $11,670 is correct for 2015 (and this matches the draft 8962) and $11,770 is for 2016. But I'm not 100% sure.

 

[rbmrtn]

For example, CoveredCA has it listed at $11,490, $11,670, and $11,770 in different places for 2015 (FPL for 1 in lower 48).

Those look to be for 2013, 2014 and 2015

Prior HHS Poverty Guidelines and Federal Register References | ASPE

 

[photoguy]

Thanks rbmrtn

I think I understand my confusion and it's due to ACA using the prior year's FPL for determining thresholds in the current year. For example, for the 2015 benefit year, the income thresholds are determined by the 2014 FPL level (and not the 2015 FPL).

Is this correct?

So for taxes this year, we should be using the $11,670 number?

 

[MBSC]

I think I understand my confusion and it's due to ACA using the prior year's FPL for determining thresholds in the current year. For example, for the 2015 benefit year, the income thresholds are determined by the 2014 FPL level (and not the 2015 FPL).

Is this correct? So for taxes this year, we should be using the $11,670 number?

Yes, $11,670 for 2015 tax returns. The FPL table runs a year behind due to the publication date. Those signing up for 2016 plans now need FPL tables to calculate APTC but only the 2015 FPL table is available. Therefore, it runs a year behind.

More info: Federal Poverty Level Guidelines