Shorthand for the “Health Insurance Marketplace®,” a shopping and enrollment service for medical insurance created by the Affordable Care Act in 2010.
In most states, the federal government runs the Marketplace (sometimes known as the "exchange") for individuals and families. On the web, it's found at HealthCare.gov. Some states run their own Marketplaces at different websites.
- Fill out a Marketplace application and you’ll find out if you qualify for lower monthly premiums or savings on out-of-pocket costs based on your income.
- You may find out if you qualify for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
You can shop for and enroll in affordable medical insurance online, by phone, or with in-person help from a trained assister or an agent or broker.
Small businesses with between 1 and 50 full-time equivalent employees can offer health and/or dental insurance to their employees through the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP).
Related content
- Find the Marketplace in your state
- Get a quick overview of the Marketplace
- Visit the SHOP Marketplace for small businesses
See Also
Affordable Care Act information