Prepare household and income information
Marketplace savings use the coverage household and a projection of annual income, not simply last month’s income. Self-employed households should use a reasonable estimate and report changes when circumstances shift.
- Household members and tax relationships
- Expected wages and net self-employment income
- Other income the application requests
- Access to job-based coverage
Compare how care is covered
Check the network for each exact plan, enter prescriptions, and compare deductibles, copays, coinsurance, and the out-of-pocket maximum. A lower premium may come with a narrower network or more cost sharing.
Know when enrollment is available
People generally enroll during annual Open Enrollment or after a qualifying life event that creates a Special Enrollment Period. Deadlines and documentation requirements apply.
Update the Marketplace when life changes
Income, household, address, marriage, birth, and access to other coverage can affect eligibility. Prompt updates can help reduce surprises when reconciling advance premium tax credits on a federal tax return.
Official sources and next steps
Use current official information and plan documents for final decisions.