Find Affordable Coverage in South Carolina
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South Carolina ACA Marketplace Overview
In 2026, approximately 180,000 South Carolina residents are enrolled in ACA Marketplace coverage. South Carolina uses the federal exchange, Healthcare.gov for health insurance enrollment.
South Carolina has not expanded Medicaid under the ACA. Adults in the coverage gap (earning too much for Medicaid but too little for Marketplace subsidies) may have limited options.
How Much Does ACA Coverage Cost in South Carolina?
The benchmark Silver plan (second-lowest-cost Silver plan) in South Carolina costs approximately $462/month before subsidies in 2026. However, most South Carolina residents who qualify for premium tax credits pay significantly less.
- $0/month premium: Possible for South Carolina households earning up to 150% of the Federal Poverty Level
- Low premiums: Households earning up to 400% FPL qualify for substantial subsidies
- Above 400% FPL: Still eligible if the benchmark plan exceeds 8.5% of household income
Use our ACA Subsidy Calculator to estimate your specific monthly costs based on your South Carolina household income.
Top ACA Health Insurance Companies in South Carolina
The following carriers offer ACA Marketplace plans in South Carolina for 2026:
- Blue Cross Blue Shield SC
- Ambetter
Plan availability varies by county in South Carolina. Use Healthcare.gov to see exact plans available in your ZIP code.
ACA Plan Tiers Available in South Carolina
- Bronze: Lowest premiums, highest deductibles. Best for healthy South Carolina residents who rarely need care.
- Silver: Mid-range. Strongly recommended for South Carolina households earning 100–250% FPL — Silver plans unlock Cost-Sharing Reductions that significantly lower deductibles and copays.
- Gold: Higher premiums, lower out-of-pocket. Best for South Carolina residents who use healthcare frequently.
- Platinum: Highest premium, lowest cost per service. Available in most South Carolina counties.
When to Enroll in South Carolina
- Open Enrollment: November 1 – January 15 on Healthcare.gov
- January 1 coverage: Enroll by December 15
- February 1 coverage: Enroll by January 15
- Special Enrollment: Available year-round if you lose job-based coverage, move, get married, or have a baby
South Carolina Insurance Resources
- Healthcare.gov — Official South Carolina enrollment portal
- South Carolina Department of Insurance — Plan complaints and consumer protection
- Complete ACA Guide — Full explanation of ACA Marketplace rules
- Subsidy Calculator — Estimate your 2026 premium tax credit