Key Facts: Arizona Health Insurance
- Medicaid Expansion Expanded (2014)
- Marketplace Type Federal (HealthCare.gov)
- Medicaid Program AHCCCS
- Open Enrollment Nov 1 - Jan 15
- Uninsured Rate ~9.5%
Medicaid in Arizona (AHCCCS)
Arizona's Medicaid program is called AHCCCS (Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System, pronounced "access"). Arizona was actually one of the last states to implement Medicaid originally, but has since embraced expansion under the ACA.
Who Qualifies for AHCCCS?
You may qualify for AHCCCS if you meet these requirements:
- Arizona resident
- U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant
- Income at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)
Income limits for 2025:
| Household Size | Annual Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $20,783 |
| 2 people | $28,208 |
| 3 people | $35,632 |
| 4 people | $43,056 |
How to Apply for AHCCCS
You can apply for AHCCCS year-round through:
- Online: Health-e-Arizona Plus portal at healthearizonaplus.gov
- Phone: Call the AHCCCS hotline at 1-855-HEA-PLUS (1-855-432-7587)
- In-person: Visit your local Department of Economic Security (DES) office
Health Insurance Marketplace in Arizona
Arizona uses the federal marketplace (HealthCare.gov) for ACA health insurance plans. If you don't qualify for AHCCCS but need coverage, the marketplace offers plans with potential subsidies.
2025 Open Enrollment Period
For coverage starting in 2025:
- Open Enrollment: November 1, 2024 - January 15, 2025
- Deadline for January 1 coverage: December 15, 2024
Special Enrollment Periods
You may qualify to enroll outside open enrollment if you experience a qualifying life event:
- Loss of other health coverage
- Marriage, divorce, or domestic partnership
- Birth or adoption of a child
- Moving to Arizona from another state
- Change in household income
Insurance Companies in Arizona
Major insurers offering marketplace plans in Arizona include:
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona
- Ambetter from Arizona Complete Health
- Oscar Health
- Cigna Healthcare
- Aetna CVS Health
Average Health Insurance Costs in Arizona
Health insurance costs in Arizona vary based on your age, location, plan type, and tobacco use. Here are typical 2025 costs:
| Plan Type | Average Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| Bronze | $350 - $400 |
| Silver (Benchmark) | $450 - $550 |
| Gold | $500 - $600 |
Cost Factors in Arizona
- Location: Phoenix metro typically has more competition and lower rates than rural areas
- Age: Premiums increase with age (up to 3x for older adults)
- Tobacco: Smokers may pay up to 50% more
- Plan level: Bronze (lower premiums, higher deductibles) vs. Gold (higher premiums, lower deductibles)
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Arizona expand Medicaid?
Yes, Arizona expanded Medicaid in 2014 through the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS). Adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level ($20,783 for an individual in 2025) may qualify for coverage.
How do I enroll in health insurance in Arizona?
Arizona uses the federal marketplace at HealthCare.gov for ACA plans. Open enrollment runs November 1 through January 15 annually. You can apply for AHCCCS (Arizona Medicaid) year-round through the Health-e-Arizona Plus portal.
What is AHCCCS and who qualifies?
AHCCCS (Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System) is Arizona's Medicaid program. You may qualify if you're a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant, an Arizona resident, and meet income limits (generally up to 138% FPL for adults, higher for children and pregnant women).
How much does health insurance cost in Arizona?
In 2025, the average monthly premium for a benchmark Silver plan in Arizona is approximately $450-550 before subsidies. Most Arizonans qualify for premium tax credits that significantly reduce costs. A 40-year-old earning $30,000 might pay under $100/month after subsidies.
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