Homework involved to apply for health insurance

Getting covered under President Barack Obama's health care law feels like a cross between doing your taxes and making an important purchase that requires research.

During a media preview Monday Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said "nothing like this has ever existed before."

You'll need accurate income information for your household, plus some understanding of how health insurance works, so you can get the financial assistance you qualify for and pick a health plan that's right for your needs.

The process involves federal agencies electronically verifying your identity, citizenship and income, and you have to sign that you are providing truthful information, subject to perjury laws.

Starting Tuesday you can apply online, via a call center, in person, or through the mail.