Many people qualify for help paying for health coverage and medical costs. Financial assistance may be available through Explore Health, the Oregon Health Plan (OHP), Medicare programs, or other state and federal programs.
The type of help available depends on factors such as:
- Income
- Household size
- Age
- Disability status
- Veteran status
Type of health coverage
Many people who enroll in coverage through Explore Health qualify for financial assistance to lower monthly costs and out-of-pocket expenses.
Premium tax credit
The premium tax credit helps lower the monthly premium you pay for health insurance.
The amount of help you receive is based on:
- Household income
- Family size
- Cost of plans available in your area
In general, people with lower incomes qualify for more financial help.
Cost-sharing reductions
Some people also qualify for extra savings that lower out-of-pocket costs such as:
- Deductibles
- Copays
- Coinsurance
These savings are called cost-sharing reductions and are available only with eligible Silver Explore Health plans.
American Indians and Alaska Natives may use cost-sharing reductions on any plan through Explore Health.
OHP provides free or low-cost health coverage for people in Oregon who qualify.
Depending on income and eligibility, OHP may offer:
- No monthly premiums
- Low or no copays
- Medical, dental, and behavioral health coverage
- Preventive care and prescription coverage
Some people who do not qualify for OHP may still qualify for financial help through Explore Health.
People with Medicare may qualify for programs that help lower health care costs.
Medicare Savings Programs
Medicare Savings Programs can help pay for:
- Medicare Part B premiums
- Deductibles
- Coinsurance
- Copays in some cases
Eligibility is based on income and resources.
Extra Help (Limited Income Subsidy)
Extra Help, also called the Limited Income Subsidy (LIS), helps people with Medicare pay for prescription drug costs.
This program may help lower:
- Monthly prescription drug plan premiums
- Deductibles
- Copays for medications
People who qualify for certain Medicare Savings Programs may automatically qualify for Extra Help.
Financial help for American Indians and Alaska Natives
Members of federally recognized Tribes and Alaska Native Corporation shareholders may qualify for additional savings and protections through Explore Health.
Depending on income, eligible individuals may qualify for:
- No out-of-pocket costs for covered services
- Reduced deductibles, copays, and coinsurance
- Special enrollment opportunities year-round
American Indians and Alaska Natives may also continue receiving services through Indian Health Service, Tribal health programs, and Urban Indian health programs.
Financial help and immigration status
Financial assistance available through Explore Health is not considered under federal public charge rules.
Applying for or receiving Explore Health financial help does not make someone a public charge.
For more information about public charge policies and health coverage programs, visit the Oregon Health Authority website.
Find out what you may qualify for
Many people qualify for more financial help than they expect.
You may qualify for:
- Explore Health savings
- Oregon Health Plan (OHP)
- Medicare Savings Programs
- Extra Help for prescription drug costs
- Tribal health coverage protections
Free local help is available near you to:
- Compare coverage options
- Understand costs
- Apply for programs
- Report changes
- Renew coverage