Health insurance
Questions & answers
Clear answers to the questions people ask most about ACA Marketplace coverage — subsidies, income limits, eligibility, enrollment, and what plans cover — updated for 2026.
Plain-language answers to the questions people ask most about Marketplace coverage — from subsidies and income to enrollment and what’s covered. Updated for 2026, with no sales pitch.
Subsidies & money
Did ACA subsidies end in 2026?
No — but the enhanced version expired, so many people now pay more.
Read more →What’s the income limit for subsidies in 2026?
The 400%-of-poverty cliff is back; here’s where it falls.
Read more →What if I underestimate my income?
You reconcile at tax time — and the repayment cap is now gone.
Read more →Eligibility
Can I get a plan if my job offers insurance?
Yes, but affordable job coverage usually blocks the subsidy.
Read more →Can I have a Marketplace plan and Medicare?
Generally no — here’s how to handle the switch at 65.
Read more →Can I get coverage if I’m unemployed?
Yes — losing job coverage opens a special enrollment window.
Read more →Enrollment & coverage
Is the ACA the same as Obamacare?
Yes — two names for the same 2010 law.
Read more →What if I miss Open Enrollment?
You’ll usually need a qualifying life event to sign up.
Read more →Does it cover pre-existing conditions?
Yes — plans can’t deny you or charge more.
Read more →Is there a penalty for going uninsured?
No federal penalty, but a few states impose one.
Read more →Ready to compare?
Ready to see plans and prices?
Enter your ZIP and we’ll take you to PlanMatch Health to compare the plans available where you live.