if you're unemployed and can't find a health plan that you can afford (one that costs no more than 8% of your income) you will be exempt. however the good news is that as someone without an income you'll qualify for steep subsidies to dramatically lower the cost of insurance. and if you live in a state expanding its medicaid program you may qualify for that as well which will provide you with insurance at no cost.
what if i am unemployed? do i have to get insurance or am i exempt?