Health Insurance

ACA / Marketplace Plans Explained

The Affordable Care Act opened access to quality health insurance for millions of Americans. Let us help you understand your options and find the right plan.

Family reviewing ACA marketplace health insurance options with a licensed advisor in Florida
Open Enrollment & Year-Round Special Enrollment Available
What Is the ACA?

The Affordable Care Act Basics

The Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare, created the Health Insurance Marketplace — a place where individuals, families, and small businesses can shop for and enroll in affordable health insurance.

ACA plans must cover essential health benefits including doctor visits, emergency care, mental health services, and prescription drugs. Insurers cannot deny you coverage for pre-existing conditions.

Many people qualify for subsidies that dramatically reduce — or even eliminate — their monthly premiums.

Did You Know?

Based on your income, you may qualify for a $0 premium ACA plan. Many of our clients pay nothing or very little each month for comprehensive health coverage. Contact us to find out what you qualify for.

Who Qualifies for ACA Coverage?

  • Self-employed individuals and freelancers without employer benefits
  • Employees whose employer doesn't offer affordable coverage
  • Part-time workers and gig economy workers
  • Families who need individual or family health coverage
  • Individuals between jobs or recently losing employer coverage
  • Students and young adults not covered under a parent's plan
Advisor helping a client understand their ACA options
Free enrollment assistance — no cost to you
Plan Types

Understanding ACA Metal Tiers

ACA plans are organized into four "metal" tiers. Each balances your monthly premium against your out-of-pocket costs differently.

Platinum

Highest monthly premium. Lowest out-of-pocket costs. Best if you need frequent medical care and can afford higher premiums.

~90% plan / 10% you

Gold

Higher monthly premium. Lower out-of-pocket costs. Best if you use medical care regularly and want predictable costs.

~80% plan / 20% you

Silver

Moderate premium. Moderate out-of-pocket costs. Required for cost-sharing reductions if you qualify for extra savings.

~70% plan / 30% you

Bronze

Lowest monthly premium. Highest out-of-pocket costs. Best if you're generally healthy and want coverage for major emergencies.

~60% plan / 40% you
Common Questions

ACA FAQs

Open Enrollment typically runs November 1 – January 15 each year. Outside of that, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you experience a qualifying life event such as losing job-based coverage, getting married, having a baby, or moving to a new state. Contact us to see if you qualify for a SEP.
Premium tax credits (subsidies) are financial assistance that reduces your monthly premium. Eligibility is based on your household income and size. In recent years, expanded subsidies have been available under the American Rescue Plan, making coverage more affordable than ever. Many individuals earning up to 400% of the Federal Poverty Level — and even beyond — qualify for some level of subsidy.
All ACA marketplace plans must cover 10 essential health benefits: ambulatory (outpatient) care, emergency services, hospitalization, maternity and newborn care, mental health and substance use disorder services, prescription drugs, rehabilitative services, laboratory services, preventive and wellness services, and pediatric services including dental and vision for children.
No. Under the ACA, insurance companies cannot deny you coverage or charge you more because of a pre-existing health condition. This protection applies to all marketplace plans and most other insurance plans regulated under the ACA.
We are certified enrollment assisters who can help you compare plans, calculate your estimated subsidies, and complete your application — all at no cost to you. We help you avoid common mistakes that can cost you thousands and ensure you pick the plan that best fits your doctors, medications, and budget.
Get Help with ACA Enrollment