How ACA Subsidies Work by State (2026 Breakdown)

ACA subsidies are available nationwide—but depending on where you live, how they're applied can vary quite a bit. That's because not every state uses the same health insurance exchange, and a few states even offer extra financial help beyond what the federal government provides.

If you're shopping for coverage in 2026, here's how ACA subsidies work in your state.

First: Federal vs. State-Based Marketplaces

There are two main types of ACA marketplaces:

1. Federal Exchange (HealthCare.gov) – Used by 30+ states
2. State-Based Marketplaces (SBMs) – Operated independently by states like California, New York, Massachusetts, etc.

In both cases, subsidies are available if you qualify—but some SBMs offer extra perks.

ACA Subsidies Are Based on Local Costs

Even though the subsidy formula is federal, your subsidy amount depends on the benchmark Silver plan in your ZIP code. That means:

• Two people with the same income can qualify for very different subsidies in different states (or even cities)
• States with higher premiums tend to offer larger subsidies
• Local insurer competition, age rating, and Medicaid expansion also play a role

Learn more about how ACA subsidies are calculated to understand the formula.

States That Offer Extra Subsidies

Some states go beyond federal ACA subsidies by offering state-level financial help. In 2026, these include:

These programs often have different eligibility rules, so check your state's exchange for full details.

Example: How State Impacts Subsidy Amount

Final Thoughts

Where you live plays a big role in how much help you get from the ACA. Make sure you:

• Use a ZIP-code specific calculator
• Check your state's official exchange (not all go through HealthCare.gov)
• Look for extra state subsidies if available

For more details on eligibility, check out our 2026 ACA income limits guide.