This analysis looked at changes in premiums after tax credits for the lowest-cost bronze, silver and gold plans by county for a 40-year-old at varying income levels. Key findings include:

Across counties, average premiums before tax credits fell 1.8% for the lowest-cost silver plan and 4.1% for the lowest-cost gold plan. Average premiums changed little for the lowest-cost bronze plan (up 0.3%).
Because of this year's American Rescue Plan Act, people with incomes up to 150% of the federal poverty level are eligible for a silver-level plan without a monthly premium and with additional cost-sharing subsidies to lower their deductibles and other out-of-pocket expenses. In two-thirds of counties, tax credits also would cover the full premium for the lowest-cost silver plan for a 40-year-old earning $20,000 a year (155% of the poverty level).
In one-third of counties, tax credits would cover the full cost of the lowest-premium bronze plan for a 40-year-old earning $35,000 a year (272% of the poverty level). Such plans typically have high cost-sharing requirements but provide substantial protection in case of severe illness.

"Because of ARPA subsidies, enrollees with incomes between 100% and 150% of poverty qualify for free or nearly free benchmark and lowest-cost silver plans, with substantially reduced out-of-pocket costs," analysts concluded. "Enrollees with incomes over 150% of poverty in many parts of the country can similarly qualify for free or nearly free silver and bronze plans. The benchmark silver plan is the basis for determining the amount of financial assistance people receive. The large tax credit may cover all or most of the cost of the lowest-cost silver or several bronze plans.

Instant Insights /

Benchmark premiums for ACA silver plans decrease, but costs vary by county

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