ACA metal categories describe how covered healthcare costs are generally shared between you and the plan. They do not represent the quality of doctors or medical care.
Generally lower monthly premiums with a greater consumer share of costs when covered healthcare is used.
Generally moderate premiums and moderate cost sharing. Silver is especially important because qualifying Cost-Sharing Reductions are available only with eligible Silver plans.
Understand CSR →Generally higher monthly premiums with a lower consumer share of covered healthcare costs when care is used.
Generally higher premiums and lower consumer cost sharing among the standard metal categories. Availability can vary by area.
Moving across metal categories generally changes how premiums and covered healthcare costs are shared. This is a framework for comparison - not a quote or recommendation.
Consumers who qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions must enroll in an eligible Silver Marketplace plan to receive those additional savings. This can make Silver worth reviewing even when another metal category initially appears attractive based on premium alone.
Eligible consumers may be able to apply Premium Tax Credits to qualifying Marketplace plans according to applicable rules.
Learn About Premium Savings →For qualifying consumers, CSR can reduce certain deductibles, copays, coinsurance and out-of-pocket limits through eligible Silver coverage.
Learn About Extra Savings →Look at premium and expected out-of-pocket costs together rather than choosing only by the monthly price.
Understand ACA Costs →Expected healthcare use, monthly budget, prescriptions, provider needs, potential Marketplace savings and comfort with out-of-pocket exposure can all affect which options are worth comparing.
Compare the specific plan's costs, network, prescription coverage and your own healthcare priorities before deciding what deserves a closer look.
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