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Plan Comparison Guide

Compare ACA Health Insurance Plans

Understand Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans. Find the best coverage for your health needs and budget.

Bronze

Coverage60%
Avg Premium$350/mo
Avg Deductible$7,500

Silver

Coverage70%
Avg Premium$450/mo
Avg Deductible$4,500

Gold

Coverage80%
Avg Premium$575/mo
Avg Deductible$1,500

Platinum

Coverage90%
Avg Premium$725/mo
Avg Deductible$250

Side-by-Side Comparison

Compare key features across all metal tiers

Feature
Bronze
Silver
Gold
Platinum
Actuarial Value60%70%80%90%
Average Monthly Premium$350$450$575$725
Average Deductible$7,500$4,500$1,500$250
Out-of-Pocket Maximum$9,100$8,700$8,700$4,500
Coinsurance (You Pay)40%30%20%10%
Best ForYoung, healthy individuals who rarely need careMost people, especially those qualifying for CSR subsidiesPeople who regularly use healthcare servicesThose with high healthcare needs or multiple conditions

Understanding Each Plan Tier

Bronze Plans

60% Coverage

Young, healthy individuals who rarely need care

Advantages

  • Lowest monthly premiums
  • HSA-compatible options available
  • Covers preventive care at 100%
  • Full coverage after deductible

Considerations

  • Highest deductibles
  • Pay more when you need care
  • Higher out-of-pocket costs

Silver Plans

70% Coverage

Most people, especially those qualifying for CSR subsidies

Advantages

  • Balanced premiums and coverage
  • Cost-sharing reductions available
  • Good for moderate care needs
  • Best value with subsidies

Considerations

  • Higher premiums than Bronze
  • Moderate deductibles
  • CSR only at this tier

Gold Plans

80% Coverage

People who regularly use healthcare services

Advantages

  • Lower out-of-pocket costs
  • Lower deductibles
  • Good for chronic conditions
  • More predictable costs

Considerations

  • Higher monthly premiums
  • No CSR subsidies available
  • May overpay if rarely use care

Platinum Plans

90% Coverage

Those with high healthcare needs or multiple conditions

Advantages

  • Lowest out-of-pocket costs
  • Very low deductibles
  • Best for high utilization
  • Most predictable expenses

Considerations

  • Highest monthly premiums
  • Limited availability in some areas
  • May not be cost-effective for healthy

Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSR): The Silver Plan Secret

If your income is between 100-250% of the Federal Poverty Level, you may qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSR) - extra savings that are only available with Silver plans.

Silver 73

Income 200-250% FPL

73% coverage

Better than standard Silver

Silver 87

Income 150-200% FPL

87% coverage

Better than Gold!

Silver 94

Income 100-150% FPL

94% coverage

Better than Platinum!

With CSR, a Silver plan becomes the best value. You get Gold or Platinum-level coverage at Silver-level prices. This is why experts often recommend Silver for subsidy-eligible families.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans?

The metal tiers represent how costs are shared. Bronze covers 60% of costs (you pay 40%), Silver covers 70%, Gold covers 80%, and Platinum covers 90%. Higher tiers have higher premiums but lower out-of-pocket costs when you use care.

Which tier is best for me?

Bronze: Best if you're healthy, rarely need care, and want low premiums. Silver: Best if you qualify for CSR or want balanced coverage. Gold: Best if you regularly use healthcare. Platinum: Best if you have high medical needs.

Do all plans cover the same services?

Yes! All ACA plans cover the same 10 essential health benefits including hospitalization, prescriptions, maternity care, mental health, and preventive care. The tier only affects how much you pay when using these services.

What are cost-sharing reductions?

CSR are extra savings that lower your deductible and out-of-pocket costs. They're only available with Silver plans for people earning 100-250% of the Federal Poverty Level. With CSR, Silver plans can offer better coverage than Gold or Platinum at lower prices.

Not Sure Which Plan Is Right for You?

Our licensed agents can help you compare plans based on your specific health needs, budget, and doctor preferences. Free assistance, no obligation.