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How do I estimate my household income?

Guidance on what income to include when reporting your household’s Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) for Marketplace coverage, including which sources count, which don’t, and how income accuracy affects your eligibility for savings.

Sam avatar
Written by Sam
Updated over 2 weeks ago

For Marketplace savings, you always report your household’s total Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) - not just your own. Even if only one person is applying for coverage, the Marketplace looks at the whole household’s income.

Who to include in income

  • Yourself

  • Your spouse, if you are married and filing jointly

  • Any dependents you will claim on your tax return, if they have income

Types of income to include

  • Wages, salaries, and tips

  • Net self-employment income

  • Unemployment compensation

  • Social Security (taxable and non-taxable)

  • Retirement, pension, and IRA distributions (if taxable)

  • Alimony received (for divorces finalized before 2019)

  • Other taxable income reported on your tax return

What not to include

  • Child support

  • Gifts or loans

  • Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

  • Workers’ compensation

  • Certain veteran’s benefits

Quick tip

Estimate based on what you expect to earn for the coverage year. If your income changes later, update your Marketplace application to keep your savings accurate. Also note, it is important to report accurate income to ensure that you only receive the financial benefits you are entitled to. If you underestimate your income you may be required to pay back any overpayment when you file your tax return for your coverage year.

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