I assume you are talking about a state tax return, because there is no health insurance requirement on the federal tax return, and therefore no exemption is needed. What state is it? Every state is different. California?

Please see Champ Mike9241's explanation above.

@Ricamay

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Mike9241

This only applies if you're a California resident

To obtain an Exemption Certificate Number (ECN) for 2023 in California, follow these steps:

Determine Eligibility:
- Check if you qualify for an exemption. Some exemptions require an application through Covered California, while others can be claimed when you file your state tax return.
- Exemptions include:
  - Income below the state tax filing threshold: Even if you choose to file taxes, you may still qualify for this exemption.
  - Short coverage gap: If you had a gap in health coverage for three consecutive months or less.
  - Health coverage affordability: Based on actual income reported on your state income tax return.
  - Certain non-citizens who are not lawfully present, citizens living abroad, and residents of other states.
  - Members of health care sharing ministries.
  - Incarceration (excluding incarceration pending the disposition of charges).
  - Enrollment in limited or restricted-scope Medi-Cal or similar coverage.
  - For a complete list, visit the California Franchise Tax Board.
Apply for Exemption:
- If you qualify, apply for an exemption through Covered California. You’ll need to provide required information and acceptable proof for you and your tax household.
- Submit your application online, by fax, or by mail. Details on how to submit are provided in the application.
- If you need assistance, call (800) 300-1506.
Receive Notice:
- Covered California will review your application within 30 calendar days.
- You’ll receive a notice indicating whether your exemption was approved, denied, or had missing/inconsistent information.
- The Exemption Certificate Number (ECN) will be provided in the exemption approval notice.
Use ECN for State Taxes:
- When completing your state taxes, use the ECN provided by Covered California on Form FTB 3853, Health Coverage Exemptions and Individual Shared Responsibility Penalty.
- This number serves as proof that Covered California granted you an exemption from the penalty.