The tiers compared
| Tier | Plan pays (on average) | You pay (on average) | Premium | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bronze | 60% | 40% | Lowest | Healthy people who want protection from big bills; HSA savers |
| Silver | 70% | 30% | Moderate | People eligible for cost-sharing reductions |
| Gold | 80% | 20% | Higher | People who expect regular care or prescriptions |
| Platinum | 90% | 10% | Highest | Frequent, expensive care (not offered in every area) |
Percentages are averages across a standard population (“actuarial value”), not what you’ll pay for any one bill. Source: HealthCare.gov.
Why silver can be the best deal
Two things make silver special. First, the second-lowest-cost silver plan in your area (the “benchmark”) is used to calculate your premium tax credit. Second, if your household income is below 250% of the federal poverty level, silver plans come with cost-sharing reductions: lower deductibles, copays and out-of-pocket maximums. These are only available on silver plans, so at lower incomes a silver plan can work out better than gold.
Bronze plans and HSAs
Since 2026, bronze and catastrophic Marketplace plans count as HSA-eligible. That means you can pay into a health savings account with pre-tax money. For 2027 the HSA limit is $4,500 for self-only and $9,000 for family cover, plus $1,000 extra if you’re 55 or older. The money rolls over each year and can be used for qualified medical costs.
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Catastrophic plans have very low premiums and very high deductibles, and cover three primary care visits a year and preventive care before the deductible. For 2027 they’re available to people under 30, people whose other coverage options would cost more than 8.5% of income, and people with a hardship exemption. Premium tax credits can’t be used on them.
The out-of-pocket maximum
Every ACA-compliant plan caps what you pay for covered in-network care in a year. For 2027 the most any plan can set is $12,000 for one person and $24,000 for a family, up from $10,600 and $21,200 in 2026. Many plans set lower limits, and cost-sharing reductions lower them further. Once you reach the cap, the plan pays 100% of covered in-network care for the rest of the year.
How to choose a tier
- Estimate your year: how many doctor visits, prescriptions and any planned procedures.
- Add up premium + likely out-of-pocket costs for a bronze, silver and gold option. The cheapest premium isn’t always cheapest overall.
- Check your income against 250% of poverty, because a silver plan with cost-sharing reductions may beat everything else.
- Then pick the plan type (HMO, PPO, EPO) that covers your doctors; see HMO vs PPO.
Frequently asked questions
Is a bronze or silver plan better?
Bronze has lower premiums but higher costs when you use care. Silver costs more each month but less when you get care, and comes with extra savings if your income is under 250% of poverty.
Do metal tiers affect the quality of care?
No. The tier only changes how costs are split between you and the insurer. Networks and quality depend on the specific plan.
What is the out-of-pocket maximum for 2027?
Up to $12,000 for an individual and $24,000 for a family for in-network care. Many plans set lower limits.
Can I use an HSA with a Marketplace plan?
Yes, with bronze and catastrophic Marketplace plans since 2026, as well as other HSA-qualified high-deductible plans.
Sources
- HealthCare.gov: The “metal” categories
- Mercer: 2027 HSA, HDHP and ACA out-of-pocket limits
- HealthCareInsider: Open enrollment 2027 dates and deadlines
- KFF: 9 Things to Watch for the 2027 ACA Open Enrollment Period (Nov. 6, 2026)
Figures checked November 7, 2026. Insurance rules and prices change and vary by state and insurer; confirm details with the insurer or your state.