Starting November 1, 2026, some customers shopping for 2027 health insurance through Connect for Health Colorado will see something new: off-exchange plans.
That sounds contradictory. For years, we’ve explained “off-exchange” as coverage purchased outside Connect for Health Colorado. Now, certain off-exchange plans will be available through the same account and shopping platform.
The distinction still matters. Off-exchange plans cannot receive financial assistance, even when you purchase them through the Connect for Health Colorado website.
What plans will you see?
The options displayed will depend on your eligibility for financial assistance and whether you have an employer reimbursement arrangement.
- If you receive financial assistance: You’ll continue to see on-exchange plans eligible for those savings.
- If you don’t qualify for financial assistance: You’ll see available standard on-exchange plans along with off-exchange Silver plans.
- If your employer offers an ICHRA: Your options depend on the arrangement’s affordability and whether you choose to use it. You’ll need to work with a broker to enroll through this pathway.
Off-exchange plans will be labeled “Not eligible for savings.” Customers who have access to both types can filter their shopping results.
Why consider an off-exchange Silver plan?
Corresponding Silver plans have different premiums on- and off-exchange because of a pricing practice called “Silver loading.”
The additional cost of providing federal cost-sharing reductions is built into on-exchange Silver premiums. Corresponding off-exchange Silver plans have lower premiums, making them worth comparing if you don’t qualify for financial assistance.
Corresponding Bronze and Gold plans have the same premiums on- and off-exchange. An off-exchange plan isn’t automatically a cheaper option across every coverage level.
The catch if your income changes
An on-exchange plan can qualify for a federal premium tax credit even if you don’t take that credit in advance, provided you meet the eligibility requirements when you file your taxes.
An off-exchange plan cannot.
For example, suppose you expect your income to be above the subsidy limit and choose an off-exchange plan. If your income later drops enough to qualify for a tax credit, you cannot claim that credit for the months you had off-exchange coverage.
That makes the choice especially important for self-employed people and others whose annual income is difficult to predict. Compare any premium savings with the possibility of qualifying for a tax credit later.
Our subsidies page explains the 2027 income limits and available financial assistance.
What if your employer reimburses your premiums?
If your employer offers an Individual Coverage HRA, commonly called an ICHRA, you’ll need a broker to use the ICHRA enrollment pathway through Connect for Health Colorado.
An affordable ICHRA generally prevents you from receiving marketplace premium tax credits. If the arrangement is considered unaffordable, you may be able to decline it and receive marketplace assistance instead, if otherwise eligible. You cannot combine ICHRA reimbursements with premium tax credits for the same coverage month.
Employer reimbursements are separate from the marketplace savings discussed here. An off-exchange plan may qualify for ICHRA reimbursement even though it cannot receive premium tax credits or Colorado Premium Assistance.
Comparing your options
The website you use will no longer tell you whether your coverage is on- or off-exchange. Check the plan’s designation, its eligibility for financial assistance, and how it fits your expected income.
We provide no-cost help comparing these options. Contact us before enrolling if you’re unsure which route makes sense for your household.
