KFF updates subsidy calculator and FAQ list ahead of ACA open enrollment

Ahead of the annual Affordable Care Act (ACA) open enrollment period, during which consumers can shop for health plans or renew existing coverage, KFF has updated its Health Insurance Marketplace Calculator and its searchable collection of more than 300 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about open enrollment, the health insurance marketplaces and the ACA.

KFF’s Health Insurance Marketplace Calculator provides estimates of 2023 health insurance premiums and subsidies for people purchasing insurance on their own in health insurance exchanges. Users can enter age, income, zip code, and family size information to estimate their eligibility for subsidies and how much they can expect to spend on health insurance premiums or if they may be eligible for Medicaid. The calculator reflects actual premiums available in local markets and the impact of the enhanced tax credits available through 2025 due to the Inflation Reduction Act.

The FAQ database covers a wide range of topics related to obtaining or renewing Marketplace coverage. It has been updated to answer questions related to changes that fix the so-called “family glitch,” which prevented some families from obtaining subsidized coverage, and that prevent insurers from denying enrollment to people who owe back premiums. More than 200 of the FAQs in the collection are available in Spanish.

Open enrollment begins on Nov. 1 and ends on Jan. 15 for healthcare.gov and most state-run marketplaces. As plan premiums and features will change in 2023 and new insurers will enter the marketplace in many states, consumers already enrolled are encouraged to actively review and renew their plan options, eligibility for tax credits, and premiums.

A new explainer highlights 9 key changes and issues to watch ahead of the 2023 open enrollment period, including a look at how the enhanced tax credits will protect most enrollees from the increase in unsubsidized premiums (4% on average nationally). KFF has also updated its overview of the financial assistance available for people purchasing their own coverage, including premium tax credits and cost-sharing subsidies and has updated select State Health Facts indicators with relevant data.

Organizations assisting consumers are encouraged to link to the FAQ web page. Each question and answer may be shared individually by direct link, via Twitter and Facebook.