ACA Subsidy Calculator (2026–2027)
Most marketplace shoppers qualify for help — and many people who assume they don't actually do. Enter four numbers and get your estimated premium tax credit, using real plan prices for your ZIP code.
Why your 2026–2027 subsidy matters more than ever
The enhanced premium tax credits expired at the end of 2025, sticker premiums rose about 26% in 2026, and insurers have proposed roughly 14% more for 2027. The subsidy — not the sticker price — is what determines what you actually pay. Between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level, your cost for the benchmark plan is capped at a percentage of your income no matter how high premiums climb, which means subsidies automatically grow as prices rise.
Two cautions for 2026–2027: the 400% income cliff is back (one dollar over means zero credit), and repayment caps are gone (underestimate your income and you repay the excess in full at tax time). If you're near either edge, talk to a licensed advisor before locking in your application — here's how the repayment rules work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this subsidy calculator work?
It estimates your household income as a percentage of the federal poverty level, applies the 2026 sliding scale (roughly 2.1%–9.96% of income for the benchmark Silver plan between 100% and 400% FPL), and checks real marketplace plan prices for your ZIP code to estimate the benchmark premium. Your estimated subsidy is the gap between the benchmark price and your expected contribution.
Who qualifies for ACA subsidies in 2026?
Generally, households earning between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level qualify for premium tax credits — roughly $15,650–$62,600 for a single person, with limits rising by about $5,500 per additional household member. The enhanced pandemic-era credits expired at the end of 2025, so the 400% cap is a hard cliff again.
What income should I enter?
Your expected Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) for the coverage year — wages, self-employment income, and most other income for everyone on your tax return, minus pre-tax retirement and HSA contributions. Estimating carefully matters: starting with tax year 2026, excess advance credits must be repaid in full.
Is the estimate accurate?
It's a good directional estimate, not a quote. Your real credit depends on your final income, every household member's age, tobacco use, and the exact second-lowest-cost Silver plan in your county. A licensed advisor can confirm the exact figure for free.
Can I use my subsidy on any plan?
Premium tax credits apply to any metal tier on the marketplace except Catastrophic plans. Many people apply their credit to a Bronze plan for very low or even $0 premiums — though if your income is under about 250% FPL, Silver plans unlock extra cost-sharing reductions worth checking first.
Methodology & disclaimer: Estimates use the 2025 federal poverty guidelines (which govern 2026 coverage; Alaska and Hawaii guidelines are higher), the approximate 2026 applicable-percentage schedule, and live marketplace plan data for your ZIP code where available. This is an educational estimate, not an eligibility determination, quote, or tax advice — your actual credit is set when you apply through the marketplace.
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