It’s a trade-off. It’s up to you to choose which option gives you the best value on your total health care costs.
Would you rather pay less now and more when you need care? Or pay more now and less when you need care?
Pay Less Now
The Bronze, Bronze Plus, and Silver coverage levels cost less per paycheck. With Bronze Plus and Silver, you will pay a higher deductible before your coverage kicks in. You will also have a higher deductible with Bronze; however, some services will be covered with a copay even if you haven’t paid your deductible.
Make sure you know how the deductible works. Also, make sure the deductible amount is something you could afford in the event you need a lot of health care.
TIP: You can save money by enrolling in an HSA when you enroll in a Bronze Plus or Silver coverage level.
Pay Less Later
The Gold and Platinum more per paycheck, but your deductible is lower. If you don’t expect to have a lot of health care needs, you could be spending money for benefits you don’t use.