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 and Bronze Plus coverage levels cost less per paycheck. Bronze Plus is an HSA-eligible plan and 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 flat dollar copay even if you have not yet satisfied 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 coverage level.

Pay Less Later

The Silver, Gold, and Platinum more per paycheck, but your deductible is lower. The Platinum coverage level does not have a deductible. If you don’t expect to have a lot of health care needs, you could be spending money for benefits you don’t use.