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Expected contribution by income: 2027 vs 2026
| Income (% of poverty line) | 2027: you pay | 2026: you paid |
|---|---|---|
| Under 133% | 2.15% | 2.10% |
| 133% – 150% | 3.23% – 4.30% | 3.14% – 4.19% |
| 150% – 200% | 4.30% – 6.78% | 4.19% – 6.60% |
| 200% – 250% | 6.78% – 8.66% | 6.60% – 8.44% |
| 250% – 300% | 8.66% – 10.22% | 8.44% – 9.96% |
| 300% – 400% | 10.22% | 9.96% |
| Over 400% | No credit | No credit |
Share of household income you pay for the benchmark silver plan. Sources: IRS Rev. Proc. 2026-26 (2027 applicable percentage table) · IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-25 (2026 applicable percentage table).
2026 poverty guidelines (used for 2027 coverage)
| Household | 100% | 138% | 400% (cliff) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $15,960 | $22,025 | $63,840 |
| 2 | $21,640 | $29,863 | $86,560 |
| 3 | $27,320 | $37,702 | $109,280 |
| 4 | $33,000 | $45,540 | $132,000 |
| 5 | $38,680 | $53,378 | $154,720 |
48 states and DC; Alaska and Hawaii are higher. Source: Federal Register — Annual Update of the HHS Poverty Guidelines (2026).
Assumptions
- 2027 IRS applicable percentages (2.10%–9.96%) and 2026 HHS poverty guidelines, which apply to 2027 marketplace coverage.
- Find your benchmark (second-lowest-cost silver) premium on HealthCare.gov or your state marketplace — it depends on ages and ZIP code.
- Doesn't model employer-coverage affordability tests or cost-sharing reductions.
Frequently asked questions
How is the ACA subsidy calculated for 2027?+
You're expected to pay a set share of your income for the benchmark (second-lowest-cost silver) plan; the premium tax credit pays the rest. For 2027 that share runs from 2.15% to 10.22% of income, up from 2.1%–9.96% in 2026.
Is there a subsidy cliff in 2027?+
Yes. The enhanced credits expired at the end of 2025 and hadn't been restored as of mid-October 2026, so households above 400% of the poverty line get no premium tax credit. For 2027 coverage that's $63,840 for one person and $132,000 for a family of four.
Which poverty guidelines apply to 2027 coverage?+
The 2026 HHS guidelines: $15,960 for one person plus $5,680 for each additional person in the 48 states and DC (higher in Alaska and Hawaii). Marketplaces use the guidelines published before open enrollment.
When is open enrollment?+
Open enrollment for 2027 plans starts November 1, 2026. Enroll by mid-December for coverage starting January 1 — check HealthCare.gov or your state marketplace for its exact deadline.
What if my income ends up different?+
The advance credit is reconciled on your tax return. Any excess must now be paid back in full — the old repayment caps were removed — so update your income estimate with the marketplace when it changes.
Related calculators
Uses 2027 rules and limits. Last reviewed October 15, 2026. Calculator version 1.0.0. Sources: IRS Rev. Proc. 2026-26 (2027 applicable percentage table) · Federal Register — Annual Update of the HHS Poverty Guidelines (2026) · Commonwealth Fund — More ACA premium spikes to come in 2027 · IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-25 (2026 applicable percentage table) · Federal Register — Annual Update of the HHS Poverty Guidelines (2025) · Health Affairs — Extending enhanced premium tax credits: where things stand. Results are estimates for educational purposes, not financial, tax or lending advice. How we check our numbers.