Marketplace Health Plans and Premiums

Can I be charged higher premiums in the Marketplace if I smoke?

In most states, yes. Generally, an insurer can charge as much as 50% more for a person who uses tobacco products. For example, if the premium for somebody your age (before any tax credits are applied) would otherwise be $200 per month, if you are a tobacco user your premium could be increased to $300 per month.

Some states prohibit insurers from applying a tobacco surcharge: California, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Virginia (2024 and 2025 only).

Some states have limits on tobacco surcharges: Arkansas (20%), Colorado (15%), and Kentucky (40%).

Some insurers opt to charge less than they are legally allowed to.  Check with your state Marketplace or state insurance department to learn more.

While we have made every effort to provide accurate information in these FAQs, people should contact the health insurance Marketplace or Medicaid agency in their state for guidance on their specific circumstances.

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The independent source for health policy research, polling, and news, KFF is a nonprofit organization based in San Francisco, California.