Bronze plan

ARP subsidies made about 4.9 million eligible for a free Silver health plan. Here's why low-income Bronze plan buyers should consider 'leveling up.'

ARP subsidies made about 4.9 million eligible for a free Silver health plan. Here's why low-income Bronze plan buyers should consider 'leveling up.'

Does it make sense for anyone to buy a Bronze ACA health plan? Yes, but they're a distinct minority of Obamacare private-plan buyers.

Cost-sharing subsidies reduce out-of-pocket spending on Silver plans. Despite lack of federal funding, these benefits remain available to eligible enrollees.

After open enrollment ends, you normally can't change your policy until the next open enrollment period, unless you experience a qualifying event that triggers a special enrollment period.

All plans must cover the same essential benefits, including free preventive care; they all provide comprehensive coverage. But plans with the lowest premiums (Bronze, and to a lesser extent, Silver) require you to pay a larger share of your health costs.