1. Maximize Your ACA Subsidy by Reporting Accurate Income
Your premium tax credit is based on your projected household income. If your income has dropped compared to last year (job change, reduced hours, retirement), update your income estimate. A lower income = a larger subsidy = lower monthly premium.
2. Choose the Right Metal Tier for Your Situation
Don't automatically choose the lowest-premium Bronze plan. If you qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions (income 100%–250% FPL), a Silver plan has a lower deductible despite a slightly higher premium — often saving more money overall than Bronze.
3. Contribute to an HSA to Reduce Taxable Income
Enrolling in an HDHP allows you to contribute to a Health Savings Account. HSA contributions reduce your Modified Adjusted Gross Income, which can increase your ACA subsidy. In 2026, you can contribute up to $4,300 (individual) or $8,550 (family).
4. Check If You Qualify for Medicaid First
If your income is below 138% FPL (in expansion states) or much lower in non-expansion states, Medicaid is free. There is no premium to lower — you pay nothing. Always check Medicaid eligibility before shopping marketplace plans.
5. Compare All Carriers, Not Just One
Premiums for the same metal tier vary significantly by carrier. In some markets, the difference between the cheapest and most expensive Silver plan is $200+/month. Use healthcare.gov or an independent broker to compare every carrier in your ZIP code.
6. Add a Spouse or Dependent to a Subsidized Household Plan
Household subsidies are calculated on household size. A larger household raises the FPL threshold and can increase your subsidy. If a spouse is currently on an employer plan, compare the cost of adding them to your marketplace plan vs. their employer plan.
7. Use Pre-Tax Premium Payments Through an Employer
If you have employer coverage, your premium contributions are paid pre-tax through payroll. This effectively reduces your premium by your marginal tax rate (25% = 25% off). Self-employed individuals can also deduct 100% of marketplace premiums from adjusted gross income.
8. Take Advantage of Native American/Alaska Native Exemptions
Members of federally recognized tribes and Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act shareholders have no cost-sharing on any marketplace plan and may have access to permanent SEPs.
9. Choose a Narrower Network Plan
HMO and EPO plans (no out-of-network coverage except emergencies) are almost always cheaper than PPO plans. If your doctors are in-network on an HMO, you get the same coverage at a lower premium.
10. Work with an Independent Broker
A licensed independent broker compares all plans in your ZIP code at no cost to you. Brokers are compensated by carriers at a flat fee regardless of what you choose — so there is no incentive to steer you to a more expensive plan. Many people find plans through brokers that they did not know existed.