ACA Income Limits 2026
How much can you earn and still qualify for ACA health insurance subsidies? Income limits, subsidy tables, and enrollment periods — all updated for 2026.
ACA Income Limits by Household Size (2026)
Based on 2026 Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Subsidies are calculated as a percentage of FPL.
| Household | 100% FPL | 133% FPL | 150% FPL | 200% FPL | 250% FPL | 300% FPL | 400% FPL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $15,960 | $21,227 | $23,940 | $31,920 | $39,900 | $47,880 | $63,840 |
| 2 people | $21,640 | $28,781 | $32,460 | $43,280 | $54,100 | $64,920 | $86,560 |
| 3 people | $27,320 | $36,336 | $40,980 | $54,640 | $68,300 | $81,960 | $109,280 |
| 4 people | $33,000 | $43,890 | $49,500 | $66,000 | $82,500 | $99,000 | $132,000 |
| 5 people | $38,680 | $51,444 | $58,020 | $77,360 | $96,700 | $116,040 | $154,720 |
| 6 people | $44,360 | $58,999 | $66,540 | $88,720 | $110,900 | $133,080 | $177,440 |
Blue = Medicaid range (138% FPL). Green = maximum ACA subsidy range. Approximate figures for 48 contiguous states.
What Subsidies Do I Get at Each Income Level?
$0 premium silver plan with Cost Sharing Reductions (CSR)
Very low premiums — most pay under $20/month for a silver plan
Significant subsidies; silver plan with cost-sharing reductions available
Moderate subsidies; premium capped at 8–10% of income
Smaller subsidies; premium capped at approximately 10% of income
May still qualify for subsidies under the American Rescue Plan extensions (check your state)
Do You Qualify for ACA Subsidies?
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Check My Eligibility — FreeFrequently Asked Questions About ACA
What are the ACA income limits for 2026?
For 2026, ACA premium tax credits are available to households earning between 100% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For a single person, that is between $15,960 and $63,840 per year. For a family of four, that is between $33,000 and $132,000. Enhanced subsidies from the American Rescue Plan may extend help above 400% FPL in some cases.
What is the difference between ACA subsidies and Medicaid?
ACA subsidies (premium tax credits) help pay for marketplace health insurance plans. Medicaid is a free government insurance program. If your income is below 138% FPL and you live in a Medicaid expansion state, you will be directed to Medicaid instead of the ACA marketplace.
Can I get ACA insurance if I am self-employed?
Yes. Self-employed individuals can buy ACA marketplace plans and qualify for subsidies based on their net income (after business deductions). Self-employment health insurance premiums may also be tax-deductible.
What is the ACA Open Enrollment period for 2026?
ACA Open Enrollment runs from November 1 to January 15 each year. After January 15, you can only enroll if you have a qualifying life event such as job loss, marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or moving to a new state.
What counts as income for ACA subsidies?
ACA uses Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI). This includes wages, salaries, tips, self-employment income, Social Security benefits (if taxable), rental income, and investment income. It does not include Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or child support.
What if I am offered health insurance through my job?
If your employer offers health insurance that meets ACA minimum value standards and costs less than 9.02% of your household income, you generally do not qualify for ACA marketplace subsidies. If the employer plan is too expensive or inadequate, you may still qualify.