Getting Started With ACA Health Insurance: Top 5 Tips

Top 5 Things to Know About ACA Health Insurance Before You Enroll If you’re new to the Affordable Care Act (ACA health insurance) Marketplace, the choices can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry — here are the five most important things to know before you enroll.

1. Gather Your Information First

Before you start, make sure you have these details ready: Your zip code Your household size Your annual income 👉 These basics help the Marketplace calculate your savings and show you the plans available in your area. 📷 Suggested Image: A checklist with “Zip Code, Household Size, Income” written on paper with a pen.

1. Subsidies Can Save You Money

Most people qualify for subsidies (also called tax credits). These can: Lower your monthly premium Reduce your deductible and copays 👉 In fact, the majority of families save hundreds of dollars per month with ACA health insurance. 📷 Suggested Image: A piggy bank with dollar bills or a smiling family looking at their computer screen.

1. Understand the Metal Tiers

ACA plans are organized into metal tiers: Bronze – Lowest monthly cost, higher out-of-pocket costs Silver – Balanced monthly cost and coverage Gold – Higher monthly cost, but lower out-of-pocket expenses 👉 The “metal” does not affect the quality of care — only how you share costs with the plan. 📷 Suggested Image: Three colored icons labeled Bronze, Silver, Gold with arrows showing cost differences.

1. Check Your Doctors and Prescriptions

Not every plan covers the same providers and medications. Always double-check that: Your primary doctor is in network Your prescriptions are covered affordably 👉 This step saves you money — and stress — later.

1. Watch the Enrollment Deadlines

ACA enrollment is not open all year. Key dates include: Open Enrollment: November through January Special Enrollment: For life events such as losing coverage, moving, getting married, or having a baby 👉 Missing these windows may mean waiting months for coverage. ✅ Recap Gather your info (zip, income, family size) Look for subsidies to save money Understand metal tiers Check doctors and prescriptions Watch enrollment deadlines At Generation Health, we make it simple to compare ACA plans side by side. 👉 Compare ACA Plans Near You