Health Insurance Cost Estimator
Estimate your monthly health insurance premium and ACA subsidy based on income, household size, and plan tier — for the US marketplace.
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How to use this calculator
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Enter your age, household size, and estimated annual household income.
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Select the plan tier — Bronze saves on monthly premiums but costs more when you use care; Platinum is the reverse.
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The calculator estimates your premium using national average rates and 2024 ACA subsidy rules.
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Actual premiums vary by state, insurer, and zip code — use healthcare.gov for exact quotes during open enrollment.
Frequently asked questions
What is the ACA Premium Tax Credit?
The Premium Tax Credit (PTC) is a federal subsidy that lowers your monthly health insurance premium on the ACA marketplace. It is based on your income relative to the Federal Poverty Level. Under current law (extended through 2025), anyone who pays more than 8.5% of income for benchmark silver coverage qualifies for some credit.
What if my income is below 100% FPL?
If your income is below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level and you are not eligible for Medicaid, you may fall into the "coverage gap" in states that have not expanded Medicaid. Check your state's Medicaid eligibility first.
What is the difference between plan tiers?
Bronze plans have the lowest monthly premiums but the highest out-of-pocket costs when you use care (typically 40% cost-sharing). Silver plans split costs 70/30. Gold is 80/20. Platinum is 90/10 with the highest monthly premium.
When can I enroll in marketplace coverage?
Open Enrollment runs November 1 – January 15 each year. Special Enrollment Periods are available if you lose job-based coverage, have a baby, get married, or experience other qualifying life events.
Estimate your ACA health insurance premium and subsidy
How the ACA marketplace works
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace — healthcare.gov — lets you compare health plans from private insurers. Depending on your income, you may qualify for a Premium Tax Credit that directly reduces your monthly bill, or for cost-sharing reductions on Silver plans that lower your deductibles and copays.
Which plan tier is right for you?
If you rarely need medical care, Bronze can save you hundreds per month in premiums. If you use prescriptions or see specialists regularly, Gold or Platinum often saves money overall despite higher premiums. Silver is the default benchmark and the only tier where cost-sharing reductions apply.
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Results are estimates for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional financial, medical, legal, or technical advice. Read full disclaimer →