The health insurance marketplace (Covered California in California) offers several types of plans organized into four metal tiers. Here's how to choose the right one.
| Tier | Insurer Pays | You Pay | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bronze | 60% | 40% | Lowest |
| Silver | 70% | 30% | Moderate |
| Gold | 80% | 20% | Higher |
| Platinum | 90% | 10% | Highest |
Bronze — Best if you're healthy and rarely use medical care. Low monthly cost, but high out-of-pocket if you do get sick.
Silver — The most popular tier. If you qualify for Cost Sharing Reductions (CSRs), you must enroll in Silver to access those savings.
Gold — Good if you use healthcare regularly. Higher premium, but lower costs when you need care.
Platinum — Best for people with very high medical needs. Highest premium, lowest cost-sharing.
HMO: Lower premium, must use in-network providers, need referrals for specialists.
PPO: More flexibility, can see out-of-network doctors (at higher cost), no referrals needed.