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For years the USW has urged the Congress to improve assistance to trade-affected workers and retirees. In the 107th Congress (2001-2002), SOAR members and their families joined active Steelworkers in pushing Congress to create a new health program.
  
Steelworker retiree activism helped Congress to pass a major expansion of the federal Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program. Called the "Trade Adjustment Assistance Reform Act of 2002", it amends and re-authorizes TAA and will benefit trade - affected workers of all ages, as well as retirees between 55 and 64 years of age.

If you are receiving Trade Adjustment Assistance benefits, or if you are between ages 55 and 64 and are receiving a PBGC pension, you may be eligible for a sixty-five percent (65%) tax credit toward the cost of purchasing qualified medical coverage. 

The IRS has now established a web page for the HCTC. It has FAQs and guidance on applying for the tax credit:

• Health Coverage Tax Credit - Individuals
• Program Overview
• Eligibility under PBGC
• Claiming the Health Coverage Tax Credit
• Form 8885: Health Insurance Credit for Eligible Recipients (PDF file)

HCTC Customer Contact Center toll-free at 1-866-628-HCTC (1-866-628-4282) to verify your eligibility.
TTD/TTY callers please call 1-866-626-HCTC (1-866-626-4282).