Health insurance costs are one of the biggest concerns for individuals and families shopping on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. The good news is that many people qualify for savings and strategies that can significantly lower their monthly premium.

If you're enrolling in coverage for 2026 or reviewing your current plan, here are several ways you may be able to reduce what you pay each month.

1. Make Sure Your Income Estimate Is Accurate

Your ACA premium tax credit is based on your estimated household income for the year. If your income estimate is too high, you may receive a smaller subsidy than you actually qualify for.

Updating your income information can sometimes result in larger premium tax credits, which reduce your monthly cost.

Examples of income that should be included:

• W-2 wages

• Self-employment income

• Unemployment benefits

• Social Security income

Providing the most accurate estimate helps ensure you receive the maximum savings available.

2. Compare Plans Every Year

Many people simply allow their plan to auto-renew, but premiums and plan benefits change every year.

By comparing available plans during Open Enrollment, you may find options with:

• Lower monthly premiums

• Lower deductibles

• Better doctor networks

• Additional benefits

Even switching to a similar plan from a different insurance company can sometimes save hundreds of dollars per year.

3. Check If You Qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions

If your income falls within certain ranges, you may qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSR).

These benefits can lower:

• Deductibles

• Copays

• Out-of-pocket maximums

While CSR savings apply to certain plan tiers, they can make healthcare significantly more affordable for those who qualify.

4. Review Your Household Size

Household size directly impacts your subsidy eligibility. If there have been changes in your household—such as a new dependent or someone leaving the household—it’s important to update your application.

Changes to household size can increase your eligibility for financial assistance.

5. Consider Different Plan Metal Levels

ACA plans are divided into four main categories:

• Bronze

• Silver

• Gold

• Platinum

Each level balances monthly premium costs with out-of-pocket expenses. For example:

• Bronze plans typically have lower premiums but higher deductibles

• Gold plans typically have higher premiums but lower out-of-pocket costs

Choosing the right plan level based on your healthcare needs can help you reduce your monthly premium.

6. Make Sure Your Subsidy Is Applied Correctly

In some cases, subsidy calculations may be inaccurate due to outdated information on your application. Reviewing your account and confirming that your:

• Income

• Household size

• Eligibility details

are correct can help ensure you're receiving the proper financial assistance.

7. Work with a Licensed Agent

Navigating ACA plans can be complicated, especially with new plans and updated subsidy rules each year. A licensed health insurance agent can help you:

• Compare multiple plans quickly

• Check doctor and hospital networks

• Verify prescription coverage

• Maximize your subsidy eligibility

Working with an agent allows you to explore your options without additional cost.