ACA subsidy cliff for the self-employed (2026)
Self-employment income is lumpy and largely in your control — which is exactly why the cliff is beatable if you plan before year-end.
Your best levers: a SEP-IRA or Solo 401(k) (large deductible room), the self-employed health-insurance deduction, an HSA + Bronze plan, and — for S-corps — an ICHRA. Run your numbers first, then price the moves.
Stay under 400% FPL → · ICHRA route → · HSA + Bronze →
Frequently asked
I don't know my 2026 income yet — freelancing is unpredictable.
That's the common case. Estimate a range, run the calculator at the high end, and keep a retirement/HSA contribution in reserve to make near year-end if you're trending over the line.
Talk to a licensed broker about your options
Free, no obligation. A broker can price your 2026 plans and the strategy moves for your exact situation.
Talk to a licensed broker about your options →