Marketplace vs. private plans: which fits you?
Both can be the right answer. It depends on your income, your health and when you need coverage.
See my priceFree to check. No pressure.Licensed agents in 31 statesA-rated carriers
Home › Guides › Marketplace vs. private plans
The quick comparison
Marketplace plans
- Priced on household income
- Tax credits if your income is in range
- Pre-existing conditions always covered
- Enroll during open enrollment or a special enrollment period
Private plans
- Priced on age and health
- No income limits, no tax credits
- Health questions to apply
- Many can start any month
When the Marketplace usually wins
- Your income qualifies you for a meaningful tax credit.
- You or someone in your household has ongoing health needs.
- You want every plan to cover the same core benefits.
When a private plan is worth comparing
- You earn too much for tax credits and pay the full Marketplace price.
- Your household is generally healthy.
- You want a PPO network or need to switch or start coverage soon.
Why compare both
Prices change every year, and so does who qualifies for help. The only way to know which is cheaper for you is to see real numbers for your household side by side.
That is what your agent does. You see both options, and you decide.
General information only. Plan details, prices and rules vary by state and can change. A licensed agent can confirm what applies to you.
See your price in about a minute.
One licensed agent in your state. Free to check. No pressure.
Keep reading
More guides
Guide · 5 min readHow private PPO health plans workWhat a private PPO health plan is, how it is priced, what to check before you apply, and who it fits best.Guide · 5 min readHealth insurance options when you are self-employedThe main ways self-employed people, freelancers and 1099 workers get health insurance, and how to choose between them.Guide · 4 min readCan you deduct health insurance when you are self-employed?How the self-employed health insurance deduction works, who qualifies, and what premiums count. General information, not tax advice.