I have a somewhat unique situation regarding health care coverage and ACA requirements as it relates to my taxes.
I had employer-provided insurance through the middle of June 2014 when I got laid off. I went uninsured the rest of the year. Then my mother passed away on December 29th. I know there is a hardship exemption for death in the family - I already know I need to apply for the exemption and have the forms - but I'm not sure of the ins-and-outs of when to use it most effectively.
I already couldn't afford health insurance because I was unemployed, and since she passed I am still wrapped up in dealing with her estate and trying to get back to an emotionally stable place so that I can go back to work, so I have no idea when I'll be able to afford health insurance.
How long does the exemption last? And can I use it for both the end of 2014 as well as some of 2015? Do I even bother using it for 2014 since she died only two days before the end of the year? I'm obviously trying to use the exemption to my maximum financial advantage.

so sorry for your loss;a “hardship” that kept you from getting health coverage.
• You’ll need to fill out a paper application and mail it in to the Marketplace; You must submit one of these forms of documentation: Death certificate;Death notice from a newspaper;Funeral service program;Document showing funeral expenses;Coroner’s report;Military notification of death;Other official notice of death
• The death must have happened between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2014. If the death of a family member didn’t prevent you from getting health insurance for the entire year, you may be able to claim another hardship exemption with the same application.
You should get a written response from the Marketplace within 2 to 4 weeks. If your exemption is granted, the notice will include an Exemption Certificate Number (ECN) for each household member.
Please Contact the Marketplace, not the IRS for more accurate info in detail.
1-800-318-2596; TTY: 1-855-889-4325
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