ACA Premium Subsidy Estimator
Estimate your Marketplace premium tax credit
The Affordable Care Act provides premium tax credits to help pay for Marketplace insurance. Your subsidy depends on household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), your plan's benchmark premium, and household size.
Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI)
Primary applicant's age
Monthly cost in your area
Any Metal tier plan
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute tax, legal, financial, or medical advice. Results depend on individual circumstances and may not reflect your actual costs. Always consult a qualified professional (CPA, licensed insurance agent, or financial advisor) for decisions about your specific situation. Data reflects approximate 2026 figures from IRS, CMS, and HHS sources.
Understanding ACA Premium Tax Credits
The Affordable Care Act provides premium tax credits (subsidies) to help individuals and families afford health insurance purchased through the Health Insurance Marketplace. The amount depends on your household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level, your areas benchmark plan cost, and your household size.
Important: ACA premiums are rising significantly in 2026 due in part to the expiration of enhanced subsidies from the Inflation Reduction Act. Check Healthcare.gov or your state marketplace during open enrollment (November 1 - January 15) for actual plans and prices in your area.
Sources: IRS, CMS, HHS, KFF, Healthcare.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for ACA subsidies?
Premium tax credits are generally available to households with income between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level who purchase coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace and are not eligible for other qualifying coverage (employer plan that meets affordability standards, Medicare, Medicaid). Enhanced subsidies may extend eligibility beyond 400% FPL depending on current law.
How is the ACA subsidy calculated?
Your subsidy equals the difference between your areas benchmark plan premium (second-lowest-cost Silver plan) and your expected contribution (a percentage of income that increases with income relative to the Federal Poverty Level). If your expected contribution is less than the benchmark premium, you receive the difference as a tax credit.