Exchange
Connect for Health Colorado
State-based exchange
Medicaid Expansion
✅ Expanded
Adults up to 138% FPL eligible
Avg. Benchmark Premium
$530/mo
Age 40, Silver plan
Colorado ACA Health Insurance Overview
Colorado operates Connect for Health Colorado, a state-based exchange for ACA health insurance enrollment. The state has expanded Medicaid, providing coverage for adults earning up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. In 2026, the majority of Colorado marketplace enrollees are expected to qualify for premium tax credits that significantly reduce their monthly premiums. Colorado runs its own exchange and has implemented a public option (Colorado Option) to reduce premiums, particularly in rural mountain communities.
Colorado Income Limits for ACA Subsidies (2026)
ACA subsidy eligibility is based on the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The table below shows key income thresholds for an individual in Colorado. For a family, multiply by the household size factor (e.g., a family of 4 at 100% FPL ≈ $50,706/year).
| FPL Level | Annual Income (Individual) | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 100% FPL | $15,650 | Minimum income for marketplace subsidies (below this → Medicaid) |
| 138% FPL | $21,597 | Medicaid expansion threshold — above this, use marketplace |
| 150% FPL | $23,475 | Below this threshold, $0-premium Silver plans are often available |
| 400% FPL | $62,600 | Traditional “subsidy cliff” — but the ARP extension through 2025 removed the cliff, capping premiums at 8.5% of income for all enrollees |
Based on 2025 Federal Poverty Guidelines used for the 2026 plan year. Alaska and Hawaii have higher FPL thresholds.
How ACA Subsidies Work in Colorado
ACA subsidies in Colorado are calculated based on your household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level and the cost of the benchmark Silver plan in your area. Because Colorado has expanded Medicaid, residents below 138% FPL typically qualify for Medicaid rather than marketplace subsidies. Use our calculator to see exactly how much you could save on Connect for Health Colorado plans.
How to Enroll in Colorado
Colorado operates its own health insurance exchange: Connect for Health Colorado.
Visit your state's exchange website to browse plans, compare premiums, and enroll during Open Enrollment or a Special Enrollment Period. You may also find state-specific subsidies or programs not available on HealthCare.gov.
Medicaid in Colorado
Colorado has expanded Medicaid under the ACA.
Adults with household income up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level may qualify for Medicaid coverage with little or no premium cost. If your income drops due to the subsidy cliff, Medicaid may be an option.
Calculate Your Colorado Premiums
See how the subsidy cliff affects your specific situation.
Open Calculator →See How the 2026 Subsidy Cliff Affects You
Enter your income and household size for a personalized premium comparison.
Calculate Your 2026 Premium Impact →Related Resources
⚠️ Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Actual premiums, subsidies, and eligibility may vary based on your specific circumstances, location, and available plans. We are not licensed insurance agents or brokers. For official information, visit HealthCare.gov or contact a licensed insurance professional. This site is not affiliated with the U.S. government, CMS, or any insurance company.