ACA health insurance
Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum: what the metal levels mean
The metal level is about how you and the plan share costs. On average a Bronze plan pays about 60 percent of covered costs, Silver about 70, Gold about 80 and Platinum about 90. Doctors and quality do not change by metal.
The trade-off
- Lower metal: lower monthly premium, higher deductible and costs when you use care.
- Higher metal: higher premium, lower costs when you use care.
- Silver is special for people with lower incomes, because cost-sharing reductions only apply on Silver plans.
How to choose
Estimate your likely care for the year, add the yearly premium, and compare plans on total cost, not only the premium. The right level changes if you expect surgery, a pregnancy, or regular specialty drugs.
Have this ready when you call
- Your expected care for the year
- Your doctors and medicines
- Your income estimate
Common questions
Does Platinum mean better care?
No. It is only a different cost split, and it is often not offered everywhere.
Can I change metal levels mid-year?
Only with a qualifying event or in open enrollment.
Related answers
Rather talk it through?
Call 855-367-1095 and a licensed agent will go through your situation with you. There is no charge to ask, and no obligation to enroll.
- Licensed insurance help
- No guaranteed eligibility, pricing, or availability
- Educational starting point
Information on this site is educational and does not guarantee eligibility, enrollment, pricing, or availability. It is not a recommendation to buy any specific plan or policy.