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How to get insurance through the ACA Health Insurance Marketplace

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) gives more people access to health insurance. Use the ACA's Health Insurance Marketplace to find health insurance options.

Find out if you are eligible for a Health Insurance Marketplace plan

See if you are eligible to use the Health Insurance Marketplace. There is no income limit. 

To be eligible to enroll in health coverage through the Marketplace, you:

Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), you have special patient protection when you are insured through the Health Insurance Marketplace:

  • Insurers cannot refuse coverage based on gender or a pre-existing condition.
  • There are no lifetime or annual limits on coverage for essential health benefits.
  • Young adults can stay on their family's insurance plan until age 26.

Learn more about your rights under the Affordable Care Act.

How to enroll in a Health Insurance Marketplace plan

There are a wide range of Health Insurance Marketplace plans to choose from. They offer coverage for not only medical care, but also dental and vision. Find out what services all plans cover and what additional coverage is available.

To get started, go to Healthcare.gov to find your state Health Insurance Marketplace. Each state's Marketplace has its own enrollment instructions.

During the Marketplace open enrollment period each year, you can:

  • Choose a plan for the first time
  • Continue in your current plan
  • Make changes to your current insurance plan
  • Choose a new plan to replace your current plan

If you experience a life event like moving or having a baby, you may be able to change your coverage during a special enrollment period. You may also qualify for a special enrollment period if your household income is below a certain amount. 

Learn about Marketplace's special enrollment and see if you are eligible.

LAST UPDATED: March 25, 2024

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