Updated October 2026 with current rules and numbers.
Last year, we warned that ACA premiums could jump if Congress didn’t extend the extra subsidies. Congress didn’t. The enhanced premium tax credits expired at the end of 2025 (Congressional Research Service). Here’s where things stand for 2027.
What changed
From 2021 to 2025, there was no income cap on help, and no one paid more than 8.5% of income for a benchmark plan. Now, households above 400% of the poverty level don’t get any subsidy (KFF).
2027 subsidy limit (400% of the poverty level)
- One person: up to $63,840
- Help is available from 100% to 400% of the poverty level
- Above that, you pay full price
The limit is 400% of the 2026 federal poverty guideline (HHS poverty guidelines), and help is limited to 100% to 400% of that level for 2027 (HealthCare.gov).
Prices are still rising
On top of losing extra help, insurers asked for a median increase of about 15% for 2027 (KFF).
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Who is hit hardest
- Early retirees aged 55 to 64, whose full-price premiums are highest
- Self-employed people and small business owners
- Households just over the 400% line
- People in high-cost states and rural areas
What about the $500 checks?
The one-time $500 payments announced in September 2026 are only for about 1 million people who enrolled through HealthCare.gov for 2026 without an advance premium tax credit (KFF). They don’t replace the expired subsidies.
5 steps to take before December 15
- Know your number. Compare your expected 2027 income with the 400% limit for your household size.
- Lower your countable income if you can. Contributions to a traditional IRA, 401(k), or HSA can reduce the income that counts. Talk with a tax professional first.
- Compare every metal level. Bronze and Gold plans can be better deals than you expect.
- Check state help. New Jersey offers its own savings up to 600% of the poverty level (Get Covered New Jersey).
- Look at job-based coverage through you or your spouse.
Be careful with short-term plans and health-sharing programs. They aren’t ACA coverage and can deny claims for pre-existing conditions. Ask us before you switch.
Want a second set of eyes on your 2027 plan?
Book a 30-minute plan check. We compare your options side by side, show the price after any savings, and check that your doctors are in network. Plan prices are the same with or without us.
Check My 2027 Options or call (786) 730-9658
Prefer to read first? Download the 2027 Marketplace Ready Checklist or la guía en español.
Related guides
- 2027 Open Enrollment: what you need to know
- 5 legal ways to lower your ACA premium
- Special Enrollment Periods: who qualifies in 2027
- ACA subsidies 2027: the 400% income cliff
Sources
- KFF: What we know about the $500 ACA checks
- KFF Health System Tracker: Why 2027 Marketplace premiums are going up
- HealthCare.gov: Dates and deadlines
- Congressional Research Service: Premium tax credits
- HHS: 2026 poverty guidelines
- HealthCare.gov: Coverage for lawfully present immigrants
- Get Covered New Jersey: Financial help
Simple Start Insurance is a licensed health insurance agency. We are not affiliated with HealthCare.gov, any state marketplace, or any government agency. Plan availability, prices, and dates vary by state and county. This article is general information, not tax or legal advice.
Want help comparing your options? See how we help with individual and family health insurance, or request a free 2027 plan check.
