State Rules for Health Share Membership (MEC Requirements & Restrictions)

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Check Your State’s Health Share Rules

Use this interactive map to see:

• Which states have an individual health insurance mandate
• Whether a financial penalty applies
• How health care sharing ministries (HCSMs) — often called “health shares” — are treated

How to use the map:

1. Hover over your state (or tap on mobile) to view its mandate status and key notes.
2. Look for details on whether your state offers exemptions for health share members. Some do — many do not.
3. If your state has a mandate, you may need to pair your health share with a low-cost Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) plan to avoid penalties.

Important: This map is updated annually, but state rules can change. Always confirm the latest requirements on your state’s official website or with a qualified tax advisor.

Next Steps After Checking Your State

Once you know your state’s mandate status, you can decide on the best path forward:

• If your state offers an HCSM exemption
  You may be able to join a health share without paying a penalty. Be sure to verify the exemption process and complete any required paperwork.
• If your state does not recognize health shares as MEC
  Consider pairing your health share with an affordable MEC plan to stay compliant.
• If the penalty is less than MEC coverage costs
  Some members choose to accept the penalty and rely on their health share for major medical needs — but run the numbers carefully before deciding.

Remember: Health shares are not insurance and do not meet the ACA’s definition of Minimum Essential Coverage. They can, however, be a flexible and affordable way to handle large medical expenses — especially when paired with the right compliance strategy for your state.

Disclaimer: This map and information are for educational purposes only and do not provide legal, tax, or insurance advice.

Health shares are not insurance and do not offer insurance coverage. Membership in a health share does not guarantee the payment or reimbursement of medical expenses. Each organization operates under its own membership guidelines, which determine what expenses may be eligible for sharing. This publication is for informational purposes only and is not provided by an insurance company. For state-specific notices and full program details, please visit the respective health share’s official website.