Exchanges & Subsidies

The Affordable Care Act terminology can be confusing, but we’re here to help make things more understandable. Here’s some basic information to help you find the best plan for your needs.

On-exchange vs. Off-exchange

An exchange is an online marketplace for buying health insurance; these exchanges can be run by your state, be federally controlled or maintained as a partnership between your state and the federal government. Affordable Care Act compliant plans are available both on and off-exchange. However, you may see some variation between what plans that are available on-exchange vs off-exchange. Comparing multiple quotes is the best way to find your perfect plan.

Subsidies

On-exchange vs off-exchange becomes important if you are eligible for a subsidy towards your health insurance. Only plans that are sold on-exchange are eligible for a subsidy to reduce the monthly premium. To qualify for a subsidy your household income must be between 100 and 400 percent of the Federal Poverty Level. We can help you check your subsidy eligibility as part of our quoting process.

Reduced Cost-Sharing Plans

Households with a very limited income may also be eligible for a reduced cost-sharing plan. These plans help reduce the out-of-pocket expenses a family needs to spend on healthcare costs. To receive this benefit you must qualify for the benefit due to your low income AND enroll in a silver plan on-exchange. Our agents can help guide you through the process.