Other findings from H&R Block's analysis:

Bronze plan-covered individuals experienced the lowest incidence of repayment because the lower premiums of bronze plans eased the income estimate process. Bronze plan taxpayers received the lowest average premium tax credit, $890 for the year.
The average "shared responsibility payment" for those who chose not to select exchange coverage was $178. Many taxpayers, especially young people, chose to pay the penalty because it was substantially lower than most plan annual premiums.
96 percent of those who qualified for and filed for a penalty exemption (IRS Form 8965) claimed a tax return exemption instead of one using the marketplace exemption process. Taking an exemption saved taxpayers penalties averaging $120.

"This season saw general ACA-related confusion, incorrect or delayed 1095-A information documents, and overall anxiety regarding refund impacts," said Mark Ciaramitaro, vice president of H&R Block health care and tax services. "With many taxpayers now receiving coverage documentation, more taxpayers who will experience APTC reconciliation and the doubling of penalties, unfortunately we should expect taxpayer anxiety and confusion to continue next year."

Instant Insights /

PPACA takes big bite out of tax refunds

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