🏛️ District of Columbia (DC)
ACA Health Insurance Guide for District of Columbia Residents
Exchange
DC Health Link
State-based exchange
Medicaid Expansion
✅ Expanded
Adults up to 138% FPL eligible
Avg. Benchmark Premium
$520/mo
Age 40, Silver plan
District of Columbia ACA Health Insurance Overview
District of Columbia operates DC Health Link, 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 District of Columbia marketplace enrollees are expected to qualify for premium tax credits that significantly reduce their monthly premiums. DC Health Link serves both individuals and small businesses. DC has expanded Medicaid with generous eligibility thresholds up to 210% FPL for adults.
District of Columbia 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 District of Columbia. 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 District of Columbia
ACA subsidies in District of Columbia 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 District of Columbia 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 DC Health Link plans.
How to Enroll in District of Columbia
District of Columbia operates its own health insurance exchange: DC Health Link.
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 District of Columbia
District of Columbia 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 District of Columbia 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.