Metal tiers define how costs split between you and your insurer. In 2026, Bronze pays 60% on average, Silver 70%, Gold 80%. Silver is the only tier that qualifies for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs) per [healthcare.gov](https://www.healthcare.gov/choose-a-plan/plans-categories/), which can raise its actuarial value to 94% for incomes near 100% of the [federal poverty level](/federal-poverty-level).
Quick Answer: ACA Marketplace plans are grouped by metal tier based on actuarial value (AV): the share of covered costs the plan pays on average. Bronze (60% AV) carries the lowest 2026 premium but the highest out-of-pocket exposure. Silver (70% AV) is the only tier eligible for Cost-Sharing Reductions, which lower your deductible dramatically if your income is 100-250% of the [federal poverty level](/federal-poverty-level). Check your 2026 [ACA income limits](/aca-income-limits) to see if you qualify for CSRs before choosing a tier.
| Metal Tier | Actuarial Value (2026) | Who It Fits Best |
|---|---|---|
| Bronze | 60% | Healthy, low care usage; budget-focused |
| Silver | 70% (up to 94% with CSR) | Income 100-250% FPL; CSR-eligible enrollees |
| Gold | 80% | Frequent care users; chronic conditions |
| Platinum | 90% | Very high care needs; rare availability |
Source: HealthCare.gov 2026 plan categories. CSR AV per CMS 2026 guidance (cms.gov).
Source: https://www.healthcare.gov/choose-a-plan/plans-categories/
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Bronze plans carry the lowest 2026 monthly premium because they have the lowest actuarial value (60%). You pay more out-of-pocket when you use care, but monthly costs are the smallest. Catastrophic plans (under 65 or hardship exemption) have even lower premiums but come with a roughly $10,600 single deductible in 2026 and limited eligibility.
If your 2026 income is 100-250% of the federal poverty level ($15,960-$39,900 for a single person), a Silver plan with Cost-Sharing Reductions can reach 73%-94% actuarial value, far above Bronze's 60%. That means a much lower deductible and out-of-pocket max. Choosing Bronze forfeits the CSR benefit entirely, even if you qualify.
Only if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), such as losing job-based coverage, getting married, or having a baby. Outside an SEP or the 2026-2027 Open Enrollment window (November 1, 2026 to January 15, 2027), you cannot switch tiers mid-year. Use our [eligibility screener](/screener) to check your options.
You may qualify for free health insurance.
Our 2-minute screener checks Medicaid, ACA, Medicare, CHIP, and more. Most uninsured Americans qualify for $0/month coverage they didn't know about.