Key Facts: Colorado Health Insurance
- Medicaid Expansion Expanded (2014)
- Marketplace Type State-Based (Connect for Health Colorado)
- Medicaid Program Health First Colorado
- Open Enrollment Nov 1 - Jan 15
- Uninsured Rate ~7%
Health First Colorado (Medicaid)
Health First Colorado is Colorado's Medicaid program, providing free or low-cost health coverage to eligible residents. Colorado was one of the first states to expand Medicaid under the ACA.
Who Qualifies for Health First Colorado?
You may qualify if you meet these requirements:
- Colorado 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 Health First Colorado
You can apply year-round through:
- Online: PEAK portal at colorado.gov/peak
- Phone: Call 1-800-221-3943
- Through Connect for Health Colorado: They'll determine if you qualify
- In-person: Visit your county Department of Human Services
Connect for Health Colorado
Connect for Health Colorado is the state's health insurance marketplace where you can shop for ACA-compliant plans and apply for financial assistance. Colorado was one of the first states to establish its own exchange.
The Colorado Option
Starting in 2024, Colorado introduced the Colorado Option - standardized health plans designed to reduce costs:
- 15% premium reduction target over three years
- Standardized benefits for easier comparison
- Available from major insurers on the exchange
- Same subsidies as other ACA plans
2025 Open Enrollment Period
- Open Enrollment: November 1, 2024 - January 15, 2025
- Deadline for January 1 coverage: December 15, 2024
Insurance Companies on Connect for Health Colorado
Major insurers offering marketplace plans:
- Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Cigna
- Denver Health Medical Plan
- Friday Health Plans
- Kaiser Permanente
- Oscar Health
- Rocky Mountain Health Plans
Getting Help Enrolling
- Website: ConnectforHealthCO.com
- Phone: 1-855-752-6749
- In-person: Certified enrollment counselors available statewide
- Health coverage guides: Free local assistance
OmniSalud: Coverage for All Coloradans
In 2023, Colorado launched OmniSalud, expanding health coverage options for residents regardless of immigration status. This program allows undocumented Coloradans ages 19 and older to purchase unsubsidized health plans through Connect for Health Colorado.
Average Health Insurance Costs in Colorado
Colorado's costs vary significantly between the Front Range and mountain communities.
| Plan Type | Average Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| Bronze | $320 - $420 |
| Silver (Benchmark) | $400 - $550 |
| Gold | $480 - $620 |
Subsidy Information
Most Coloradans qualify for subsidies that reduce costs significantly:
- Those earning under 150% FPL may pay $0 for Silver plans
- A 40-year-old earning $35,000 might pay $100-200/month after subsidies
- Enhanced subsidies are available through 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Connect for Health Colorado?
Connect for Health Colorado is Colorado's state-based health insurance exchange where residents can shop for ACA-compliant health plans and apply for financial assistance. It was one of the first state exchanges established under the ACA and has been operational since 2013.
Did Colorado expand Medicaid?
Yes, Colorado expanded Medicaid in 2014 under the name Health First Colorado. Adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level ($20,783 for an individual in 2025) may qualify for free or low-cost health coverage.
What is the Colorado Option?
The Colorado Option is a standardized health plan design available on Connect for Health Colorado starting in 2024. It requires insurers to reduce premiums by 15% over three years through negotiated provider rates. These plans are available alongside other ACA plans on the exchange.
How much does health insurance cost in Colorado?
Average Silver plan premiums in Colorado range from $400-550/month before subsidies. Mountain communities typically have higher premiums than the Front Range. Most Coloradans qualify for subsidies that significantly reduce costs, with some paying $0 for Silver plans.
Need Help Finding Coverage in Colorado?
From Denver to Durango, our licensed agents can help you navigate Health First Colorado and Connect for Health Colorado options.
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