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Health insurance: free and low-cost coverage

Which coverage fits depends mostly on your age and income. Many people qualify for more help than they expect, and children often qualify even when their parents don't.

Open enrollment for 2027 coverage: Nov. 1 to Jan. 15 in most states. Sign up by Dec. 15 for coverage that starts Jan. 1. Some states set their own dates.

Free coverage: Medicaid and CHIP

Medicaid covers adults and families with lower income, and CHIP covers children in families that earn too much for Medicaid. Both are free or very low cost. Each state runs its own program, and you can apply any time of year.

Medicaid and CHIP health coverage ↗Your state's officeFind your state's Medicaid and children's health insurance office.

Marketplace plans (Obamacare)

If your income is too high for Medicaid and you can't get affordable coverage through a job, you can buy a plan at HealthCare.gov or your state's marketplace. Tax credits lower the monthly cost for many households, but most people now pay something each month. Plans with a $0 premium became less common after the extra tax credits ended in 2025. You can sign up during open enrollment, or within 60 days of a big life change like losing a job, moving or having a baby.

Marketplace health insurance with premium tax creditsTax breakPrivate health plans, with tax credits that lower monthly premiums for many moderate-income households.Who qualifies: People without affordable job-based coverage or Medicaid; tax credits depend on household income.

People 65 and older

Medicare covers most people 65 and older, and some younger people with disabilities. Other programs help pay what Medicare doesn't.

Medicare enrollmentFree service or coverageFederal health insurance starting at age 65, or earlier for some people with disabilities.Who qualifies: People 65 and older, and younger people who have received disability benefits for a set time.Extra Help with prescription costsFree service or coverageLowers Medicare Part D premiums, deductibles and drug copays.Who qualifies: People with Medicare drug coverage who have limited income and savings.

Veterans

VA health careFree service or coverageMedical care at VA medical centers and community clinics, often at little or no cost.Who qualifies: Veterans who served on active duty and meet basic service requirements.

Good to know

  • Community health centers see patients with or without insurance and charge based on income. Find a health center near you ↗
  • Applying is free. Be wary of anyone who charges a fee to sign you up.
  • Missing your Medicare sign-up window can mean penalties that last for life.

Rules, limits and deadlines change. Each program page links to the official source for current details. Choose your state to see everything available where you live.