What to Know About ACA Health Insurance When Your Spouse is Unemployed

When you’re married, filing your taxes jointly can provide significant tax benefits, even if one spouse does not have income. This is especially true when it comes to qualifying for subsidies to help lower the cost of health insurance under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Is Joint Filing Always Better?

Filing jointly is generally the best option for most married couples. It allows you to combine your incomes and deductions, which can lower your overall tax bill. In the case of health insurance, filing jointly can also help you qualify for ACA subsidies if only one spouse has income.

ACA Subsidies and Joint Filing

ACA subsidies are available to help lower the cost of health insurance for low- and moderate-income individuals and families. The amount of subsidy you qualify for is based on your household income, family size, and the cost of health insurance in your area.

If you file your taxes jointly, your household income includes the income of both spouses. This means that even if one spouse does not have income, it can still affect your eligibility for ACA subsidies.

How to Qualify for ACA Subsidies

To qualify for ACA subsidies, you must meet the following requirements:

Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
Not be incarcerated
Not have access to affordable health insurance through an employer or other source
Have a household income that is below a certain level

The income limits for ACA subsidies vary depending on your family size. For 2024, the income limits are as follows:

For individuals: Up to $58,000
For families of two: Up to $98,000
For families of three: Up to $139,000
For families of four: Up to $180,000

How to Apply for ACA Subsidies

You can apply for ACA subsidies when you enroll in health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace. You can apply online, by phone, or through a licensed agent or broker.

When you apply for subsidies, you will need to provide information about your household income, family size, and the cost of health insurance in your area. You will also need to provide proof of your U.S. citizenship or legal residency.

If You Don’t Qualify for ACA Subsidies

If you do not qualify for ACA subsidies, you can still purchase health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace. However, you will have to pay the full cost of your premiums.

You may also be able to find affordable health insurance through your employer or other sources. If you have questions about your health insurance options, it’s important to talk to a licensed agent or broker.