11/13/2025
ACA Expanded Tax Credits/Subsidies — What to Know for 2026 (Covered CA)
During COVID, lawmakers enhanced ACA tax credits and subsidies. Those enhancements were for plan years 2023–2025 and are set to expire in 2026 unless new legislation is passed. If they expire, the prior “income cliff” returns, and many households could see lower financial help.
Common Q&A
1. If the enhanced credits get extended, and I become eligible for help again or additional help, will I qualify retroactively?
Yes—if you apply through Covered California, but not if you apply directly to an insurance company. Eligibility still depends on your household size and income, and Covered CA will recalculate any financial help based on the rules in effect.
2. If I pick a plan now and the enhanced credits come back, can I change?
Yes—through Open Enrollment, which runs until Jan 31, 2026. If legislative changes are made very late, regulators will likely adjust/extend the enrollment deadline.
3. What is the current deadline? 12/31 for a 1/1 start date and 1/31 for the 2/1 start date.
📅 Need guidance? We’re reviewing options with clients now—message us to compare plans and estimate your potential savings.