CoveragePath guide · Updated 2026-10-05
Job Offer vs. Marketplace Plan: When You Can Still Get Savings
An employer offer decides whether you can get Marketplace premium tax credits. The answer turns on two tests and on who in your household the offer reaches.
Quick answer
You cannot get premium tax credits for any month you have an offer of job-based coverage that is both affordable and meets minimum value. If the offer is not affordable, or does not meet minimum value, you and others in your household may qualify for savings. Declining an offer that passes both tests does not restore savings.
The two tests
| Test | What it asks | Where to check |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum value | Does the plan cover at least 60% of medical costs and offer substantial hospital and doctor coverage? | The plan's summary of benefits, or ask HR |
| Affordability | Is your share of the monthly premium for the lowest-cost plan the employer offers within the IRS limit for the year? | Employer premium sheet, then IRS guidance for the current percentage |
The affordability limit is a percentage of household income that the IRS sets each year, so use the current figure from the IRS rather than a number from an article.
Decision table
| Your offer | Savings? |
|---|---|
| Affordable and meets minimum value | No savings for that employee, even if declined |
| Not affordable, or below minimum value | The household may qualify for savings |
| Affordable for the employee but not for family members | Only the other household members may qualify |
| No offer, for example after a job ends | Savings possible based on income |
Family coverage is a separate question
HealthCare.gov states that when the premium is affordable for the employee but not for other household members, only the other members may qualify for savings. Get the employee-only price and the family price in writing before you compare, because the family price is usually the one that matters.
COBRA and gaps
COBRA lets you keep a former employer's plan, usually for up to 18 months, but you pay the full premium plus fees and get no savings. If you are choosing between COBRA and the Marketplace after leaving a job, see the lost coverage guide, and confirm the start date so you do not create a gap.
When you can switch
You can change plans during Open Enrollment, or during a Special Enrollment Period if you newly qualify. 2027 Open Enrollment on HealthCare.gov ends December 15, so check the 2027 dates.
Related on CoveragePath
Sources
CoveragePath provides educational information, not a Marketplace eligibility determination or plan quote. Verify personal eligibility and final prices with the Marketplace.