How do I get health insurance before Medicare?
If you retire before 65, you can buy a marketplace plan, and a tax credit lowers the premium. Under current law, that credit ends above 400% of the federal poverty line.
Your result
Before you rely on this
- Below about 138% of the poverty line you may qualify for Medicaid in expansion states instead.
- Congress has changed these subsidies before, so the rules can change.
- Check HealthCare.gov before you enroll.
How we calculated it
- Your income as a share of the poverty line sets the percent of income you are expected to pay. It rises in steps across income bands.
- Your credit is the benchmark plan price minus that expected payment. It never goes below zero.
This is a simplified estimate. It does not check other coverage, such as an employer plan.
Common questions
What is the 400% poverty line cliff?
Under current law, marketplace premium tax credits stop when household income is above 400% of the federal poverty line. One dollar over can cost you the whole credit.
Which income counts for the subsidy?
Modified adjusted gross income (MAGI): adjusted gross income plus tax-exempt interest and some other items. Roth conversions and capital gains count.
What if my income is very low?
In states that expanded Medicaid, you may qualify for Medicaid instead of marketplace subsidies at roughly 138% of the poverty line or below.
Can the rules change?
Yes. Congress has changed these subsidies before, so check HealthCare.gov for the current rules when you enroll.