Health Coverage HIV & You

HCHY

Open enrollment for 2025 has ended. Open enrollment for 2026 will start in November. Use the state finder tool above for more information on health coverage options in your state.

Individuals purchasing coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace cannot be denied or charged more for coverage because of a pre-existing condition, including HIV. 

Those with low to moderate incomes may qualify for federal subsidies to buy a new plan through the marketplace. In some cases, you may pay no premium at all.

People who lose their job and with it their employer-sponsored insurance, as well as those in other special circumstances (e.g. marriage, divorce, a move, birth of a child), may be allowed to enroll outside of the open enrollment period. If you anticipate a coverage loss, you can apply for special enrollment in the ACA up to 60 days in advance. 

Additionally, some people may be eligible for Medicaid. Eligibility is typically determined based on monthly household income, among other factors, so people completely out of work or losing hours may newly qualify. Enrollment in Medicaid is ongoing throughout the year.

FAQs: Health Insurance Marketplace and the ACA

HCHY Financial Assistance
Open Enrollment

Financial Assistance

Can’t afford health coverage? Help may be available.

Depending on your income, you may be eligible for different types of financial assistance to help with monthly premiums, deductibles or other out-of-pocket costs.

Find out if you’re eligible for assistance with KFF’s subsidy calculator.

Ryan White & ADAP
Paying for care and medication

Ryan White & ADAP

Ryan White HIV / AIDS Care Program covers HIV medical care and offers support services for people with HIV living on lower and moderate incomes, including HIV care and treatment, mental health care, housing assistance, and more. The AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), part of the Ryan White Program, helps individuals with financial need pay for their HIV medications and in some cases, expenses associated with insurance.

Learn More

While every effort has been made to provide accurate and current information, please contact the marketplace or Medicaid agency in your state to confirm options in your area. The website is a product of KFF, an independent nonprofit health information organization not affiliated with Kaiser Permanente.