ACA Marketplace

How to Apply for ACA Health Insurance 2026

Applying for ACA Marketplace coverage takes most people 30–60 minutes. Here’s exactly what you’ll need and how the process works.
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Information You’ll Need

Step-by-Step Application Process

  1. Create an account: Go to Healthcare.gov (or your state exchange) and create a login.
  2. Start an application: Click “Apply for Coverage” and complete your household information.
  3. Enter income: Provide your estimated annual household income for the coming year.
  4. Review eligibility: The system will tell you if you qualify for Medicaid, CHIP, or Marketplace subsidies.
  5. Compare plans: Browse plans in your area filtered by premium, deductible, and network.
  6. Enroll: Select your plan and complete enrollment. You’ll then pay your first premium directly to the insurer.

Coverage Start Dates

Getting Help

If you need help, free enrollment assistance is available from Navigators, Certified Application Counselors, and licensed brokers. You can also call the Marketplace Call Center at 1-800-318-2596.

See also: Enrollment DatesSpecial Enrollment Periods