Affordable Care Act (ACA) / HealthCare.gov Marketplace / COBRA
U.S. Health Insurance & ACA Marketplace Guide 2026
Complete guide to U.S. health insurance: ACA Marketplace plans (Bronze/Silver/Gold/Platinum metal tiers), employer-sponsored ESI, COBRA continuation, and income-based Premium Tax Credits (PTCs).
Overview
The Affordable Care Act (ACA), signed into law March 23, 2010, established federal health insurance marketplaces (HealthCare.gov) for individuals to purchase standardised plans. ACA plans are categorised into metal tiers: Bronze (60% actuarial value), Silver (70%), Gold (80%), and Platinum (90%). Individuals earning 100%–400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) qualify for Premium Tax Credits (PTCs) and Cost Sharing Reductions (CSRs).
Key Facts & Statutory Reference
| Item | Detail | Statutory / Official Source |
|---|---|---|
| Bronze Plan | 60% actuarial value — lowest premium, highest deductible | ACA 42 U.S.C. § 18022 |
| Silver Plan | 70% actuarial value — CSR subsidies apply | ACA § 1402 |
| Gold Plan | 80% actuarial value — moderate premium | ACA § 18022 |
| Platinum Plan | 90% actuarial value — highest premium, lowest deductible | ACA § 18022 |
| PTC Eligibility | 100%–400% FPL (expanded via Inflation Reduction Act) | IRS Form 8962 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. Lawfully present immigrants (including H-1B, L-1, and Green Card holders) are eligible to purchase ACA marketplace health insurance and may qualify for Premium Tax Credits if their income falls between 100%–400% of the Federal Poverty Level.
COBRA allows workers who lose employer-sponsored health coverage to continue the same group plan for up to 18 months. The employee pays 100% of the premium plus a 2% administrative fee, which is typically significantly more expensive than marketplace plans.