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Bronze, Silver or Gold: which plan fits you?

Plans · 4 min read

Every ACA plan covers the same essential benefits. The metal level only changes how you and the plan split the cost of your care. On average, the plan pays about:

• Bronze: 60% of costs
• Silver: 70% of costs
• Gold: 80% of costs
• Platinum: 90% of costs

A higher level means a higher monthly premium but lower costs when you see a doctor, fill a prescription or go to the hospital.

Bronze: low monthly price

A good fit if you're generally healthy, rarely see a doctor and mainly want protection from a big, unexpected bill. Bronze plans are the most likely to cost $0 after your tax credit. Free preventive care is still included.

Silver: the middle option, and sometimes the best deal

Silver is the only level with cost-sharing reductions. If your income qualifies, a Silver plan can come with a much lower deductible and copays, often making it a better value than Gold. Always compare Silver if your income is on the lower side.

Gold: lower costs when you get care

Worth a look if you see doctors often, manage a condition or take regular prescriptions. You pay more each month, but less each time you use care.

Platinum: highest premium, lowest out-of-pocket

For people who expect a lot of care. Platinum isn't offered in every area.

A simple way to choose

Add up the yearly premium plus what you'd likely spend on care. The plan with the lowest total, that also covers your doctors and medicines, is usually the right one. A licensed agent can run these numbers with you.