Who qualifies for an ACA subsidy in 2026?

Households with income between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level qualify for ACA premium tax credits. Through plan year 2025, enhanced Inflation Reduction Act subsidies extend help above 400% FPL by capping premium contribution at 8.5% of income.

Is the ACA subsidy calculator accurate?

Our calculator uses 2026 HHS poverty guidelines and the official APTC formula. Final subsidy amounts depend on the second-lowest-cost Silver plan in your county; HealthCare.gov gives the exact APTC at enrollment.

What income counts for ACA subsidies?

Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) of the tax household. That includes wages, self-employment income, Social Security, and most other income — minus pre-tax retirement and HSA contributions.

Calculator

ACA subsidy calculator (2026)

Estimate your premium tax credit (APTC), CSR Silver eligibility, and where you sit on the Federal Poverty Level scale. Free, no signup.

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Estimate your 2026 subsidy

Household income (MAGI)

Household sizeState

100% FPL (your household)

$21,150i

Your income

$45,000

Income as % of FPL

213%

0%100%300% (zero CSR)500%+

You likely qualify for $0 cost-sharing. At 213% FPL (≤300%), an AI/AN household enrolled through the Marketplace pays no deductibles, copays, or coinsurance on any metal tier when care is received from an Indian Health Service, Tribal, or Urban Indian (I/T/U) provider, or with a referral from one. Premium tax credits typically bring premiums to $0 as well.

Estimate only. Uses 2026 HHS poverty guidelines for plan year 2027. Final eligibility is determined by the Marketplace using verified MAGI and proof of tribal membership (CDIB, tribal ID, ANCSA shareholder documentation, etc.).

How the calculation works

Your premium tax credit equals the cost of the second-lowest-cost Silver ("benchmark") plan in your county, minus the percentage of household income you're expected to contribute. Under current rules, that contribution cap rises from 0% at 150% FPL to 8.5% at 400%+ FPL. Anything above that, the credit covers — and you can apply it to any metal-tier plan, not just Silver.

For cost-sharing reductions (lower deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket maximums), enroll in a Silver plan and have income under 250% FPL.

Next steps

Full subsidy guide — FPL tables, the 400% cliff, MAGI
Open Enrollment dates by state
Talk to a licensed ACA broker — free, no obligation

Sources

The information contained on this website is for educational purposes only. We are not responsible for missing or inaccurate information. Please consult a licensed insurance broker in your state and area for insurance advice. Please consult a CPA for tax or legal advice.