If you qualified for a tax credit under the Affordable Care Act, there are very important tax considerations that you need to be aware of. First, you're required to prepare and file a federal tax return (even if you've never filed one) in order to receive your healthcare subsidy benefits. The credit can be applied towards your monthly health insurance premiums, or you can claim it on your return. Keep in mind that if you don’t file a tax return, you may become ineligible for future health insurance tax credits.