For 2026, all Bronze and Catastrophic plans now work with Health Savings Accounts. If you’re thinking about these plan types, here’s what you need to know:
When choosing a plan for you and your household, think about your income, health needs, and what’s available in your area. Bronze plans with Health Savings Accounts are usually a better deal than Catastrophic plans. But, in some areas, a Catastrophic plan might be your best option.
- Bronze plans generally have the lowest monthly premiums but higher out-of-pocket costs when you need care. Many cover services while you’re paying the deductible. They can be a good choice if you usually use a few medical services and mostly want protection from very high costs if you get seriously sick or injured.
- Catastrophic plans have lower monthly premiums but the highest out-of-pocket costs and cover at least 3 primary care visits per year before you finish paying the deductible. They help protect you if something serious happens, like a major accident or unexpected illness. These plans are available to people under 30 or those over 30 who qualify for hardship or affordability exemptions.
Starting in 2026, a hardship exemption will expand Catastrophic plan eligibility to anyone who isn’t eligible for savings on Marketplace coverage due to their income, if these plans are offered in your area. To find out if you qualify for a hardship exemption to enroll in Catastrophic coverage, tell us that you want to know if you qualify for financial help when you apply for coverage.
- If you don’t qualify for the premium tax credit due to your income, you’ll automatically qualify for a hardship exemption to enroll in a Catastrophic plan (if available in your area). These plans will be available for you to compare during enrollment.
- If you qualify for the premium tax credit but don’t qualify for extra savings (sometimes called “cost sharing reductions”) to lower your out-of-pocket expenses, you can apply separately for a hardship exemption to find out if you’re eligible to enroll in Catastrophic coverage.
