Getting Help with Costs
The Affordable Care Act introduced various forms of financial assistance to help US citizens and legal residents pay for individual health insurance each month.
(For help with Medicare costs click here.)
More than half of Americans who apply for individual coverage are eligible for financial help.
A few guidelines about receiving financial help:
Not available if you can get health insurance from an employer that meets minimum coverage and/or affordability standards.
Not available if you are eligible for Medicare or certain other government programs.
Your financial eligibility will be verified each year when renewing your health plan.
Washington residents must purchase and renew individual coverage through the Washington Healthplanfinder.
Tax Credits & Cost Sharing Subsidies
The Health Insurance Premium Tax Credit (HIPTC) is the main form of help that can immediately lower what you pay in monthly premiums. Cost-sharing reductions (CSR) lowers the amount you pay when receiving care (e.g., lower deductibles, copays, etc.).
Lower Premiums
Lower Out-of-Pocket Costs
What income ranges qualify for insurance?
The government measures household income in relation to the annual Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
Households under 138% FPL may qualify for coverage through Washington Apple Health (Medicaid).
Households 138-250% FPL may qualify for both tax credits and cost-sharing reductions.
Households 250-400% FPL may qualify for tax credits to purchase a Qualified Health Plan.