ACA Marketplace Plans — How They Work in 2026
The ACA Marketplace offers private health insurance with income-based subsidies. Premium Tax Credits reduce your monthly premium — for many households below 250% FPL, this means paying $0–$50/month for comprehensive coverage.
You can enroll during Open Enrollment (November 1 – January 15) or during a Special Enrollment Period triggered by losing job-based coverage, moving, having a baby, or getting married.
Free ACA Marketplace Tools
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Benefits Match Quiz
Medicaid or Marketplace?
See which you qualify for
Check whether you qualify for free Medicaid or subsidized Marketplace coverage in one quick quiz.
Find My Coverage Options →
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ACA Subsidy Guide
Up to $0/mo
Premiums for many households
See how much the Premium Tax Credit can reduce your monthly insurance costs in 2026.
Read the Guide →
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Enrollment Guide
Nov 1 – Jan 15
Open enrollment window
Step-by-step guide to enrolling through healthcare.gov, including plan comparison tips.
View Guide →
2026 Marketplace Subsidy Eligibility
2026 Marketplace Subsidy Eligibility
Premium Tax Credit income range (100%–400%+ FPL)
| Household Size | Income Range for Subsidies | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $15,060 – $60,240 | $0 plans common below $22,590 |
| 2 people | $20,440 – $81,760 | $0 plans common below $30,661 |
| 3 people | $25,820 – $103,280 | $0 plans common below $38,730 |
| 4 people | $31,200 – $124,800 | $0 plans common below $46,800 |
| 5 people | $36,580 – $146,320 | $0 plans common below $54,870 |
No upper income cap if your premium would exceed 8.5% of income. Check healthcare.gov for your exact subsidy.
How to Enroll in an ACA Marketplace Plan
1
Check If Medicaid Is Available First
If your income is below 138% FPL in an expansion state, Medicaid is likely a better option — it's free.
Find My Coverage Options →
2
Create an Account at Healthcare.gov
Go to healthcare.gov and enter your household information to see plan options and estimated subsidies.
Full Enrollment Guide →
3
Compare Plans — Choose Silver If You Get CSR
If you qualify for cost-sharing reductions, always choose a Silver plan — you get the best value.
Silver vs Gold Guide →
4
Enroll and Pay Your First Premium
Select your plan and pay your first month's premium to activate coverage.
Not Sure What You Qualify For?
Take the free Benefits Match Quiz — see Medicaid, CHIP, Marketplace subsidies, and every health program you may qualify for.
All ACA Marketplace Articles
See All →
Enroll
Healthcare.gov Enrollment Guide 2026 — Step-by-Step
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Subsidies
ACA Subsidy Eligibility 2026 — How Much Can You Save?
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SEP
Special Enrollment Periods — Enroll Outside Open Enrollment
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Plans
Silver vs Gold Health Plans — Which Should You Pick?
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COBRA
COBRA vs Marketplace Coverage — Which Is Cheaper?
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