What does MAGI stand for in the context of household income?

MAGI stands for Modified Adjusted Gross Income. In the context of household income, MAGI is a crucial metric used to determine eligibility for various federal assistance programs, including health coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and certain tax credits.

The term "Modified" refers to the adjustments made to the Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). To calculate MAGI, you typically take your AGI and add back certain deductions, such as tax-exempt interest income or student loan interest deductions. This adjusted figure helps provide a clearer picture of an individual or household's financial situation and ability to pay for health insurance or access specific benefits.

Understanding MAGI is important for individuals and families navigating eligibility for subsidies, Medicaid, and other healthcare-related financial assistance, as it plays a significant role in the determination of available support based on income levels.