ACA Subsidy Cliff Calculator

See exactly how the 400% FPL cliff affects your 2026 health insurance subsidies.

Your Information

Using avg. benchmark premium: $560/mo ยท Medicaid NOT expanded

$
$0400% FPL = $84,600$127,000
๐Ÿ’ฐ

Subsidy Eligible

212.8% FPL

2026 FPL for 2-person household: $21,150

$295
Monthly Subsidy (APTC)
$265
Your Monthly Premium
$3,539
Annual Subsidy Value

Income Band Visualization

Under 100% FPL
100โ€“138% FPL
138โ€“200% FPL
200โ€“300% FPL
โ† You
300โ€“400% FPL
Above 400% FPL

How the Subsidy Cliff Works

What is the 400% FPL cliff? Under the original ACA, subsidies cut off completely at 400% of the Federal Poverty Level. One dollar over, and you lose the entire subsidy โ€” which can be worth thousands of dollars per year.

2026 change: The enhanced subsidies from the American Rescue Plan expired. The 400% FPL cliff is back in full effect for 2026. Households earning just above the threshold face dramatically higher premiums.

What you can do: If you're near the cliff, consider contributing to a Traditional IRA, HSA, or 401(k) to reduce your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI). Even small reductions can preserve thousands in subsidies.

Estimates use 2026 FPL guidelines and IRS applicable percentages. Benchmark premiums vary by location and age. This is for educational purposes only โ€” not tax or insurance advice.