2026 Premium Tax Credit Calculator
Estimate your monthly ACA subsidy and net premium for 2026 based on your household income, family size, and age.
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MAGI — include wages, self-employment income, Social Security, etc.
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Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Actual PTC amounts are determined by the IRS based on your final MAGI, household size, and the actual benchmark plan premium in your area. Benchmark premiums shown are national age-based estimates and will differ from your local second-lowest-cost silver plan. Always verify eligibility and amounts at HealthCare.gov or your state exchange before enrolling. Not tax or legal advice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Premium Tax Credit (PTC)?
The Premium Tax Credit is a refundable federal tax credit that helps eligible individuals and families pay for health insurance purchased through the ACA marketplace. The credit is calculated based on your household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and the benchmark silver plan premium in your area.
Is there still a 400% FPL income cliff in 2026?
No. Under the American Rescue Plan (ARP) extension assumed through 2026, there is no hard cutoff at 400% FPL. Households above 400% FPL can still receive a PTC if their required contribution (8.5% of income) exceeds the benchmark premium. This prevents the sudden loss of subsidies that occurred before the ARP.
What are Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSR)?
Cost-Sharing Reductions are additional savings that reduce your out-of-pocket costs — like deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums — when you enroll in a Silver plan. CSR is available to households earning between 100% and 250% of the Federal Poverty Level. You must enroll in a Silver plan to access CSR benefits.
How is the benchmark silver premium determined?
The benchmark silver premium is the cost of the second-lowest-cost silver plan available to you in your area. The PTC is calculated so that you pay no more than your required contribution percentage toward this plan. This calculator uses age-based estimates: approximately $350/month at age 30, $450 at 40, $600 at 50, and $800 at 60. Actual premiums vary by location.
Can I take the Premium Tax Credit in advance?
Yes. You can receive the PTC as an Advance Premium Tax Credit (APTC), which is paid directly to your insurer each month to lower your monthly premium. At tax time, you reconcile the APTC against your actual credit based on your final income. If your income was higher than estimated, you may owe some back; if lower, you may get a refund.
What counts as household income for PTC purposes?
Household income for PTC includes wages, salaries, tips, self-employment income, Social Security benefits (including disability), unemployment compensation, alimony, investment income, and most other taxable income. It does NOT include child support received, gifts, or inheritances. For self-employed individuals, you deduct business expenses and the self-employment tax deduction before calculating income.
What if my income changes during the year?
Report income changes to the marketplace as soon as possible. If your income increases, your PTC decreases — and if you've been receiving too much APTC, you'll owe the difference at tax time. If your income decreases, you may be eligible for more APTC. You can also choose to wait and claim the full credit on your tax return rather than taking APTC in advance.