Affordable Care Act (ACA)

The Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare, is a federal law passed in 2010 to make health insurance more accessible and affordable for Americans.

What the ACA Does

• Helps you get coverage: You can enroll in health insurance through state or federal marketplaces, often with financial help if you qualify.
• Protects you: Insurance plans can’t deny coverage for pre-existing conditions and can’t have annual or lifetime limits.
• Covers what you need: All plans must include essential health benefits, and preventive care is free.
• Expands Medicaid: In some states, more low-income individuals and families qualify for Medicaid.

Why It Matters

The ACA has helped millions of Americans get health insurance and avoid high medical costs. Even if open enrollment is over, life changes like moving, marriage, or having a child may let you sign up through a special enrollment period