# ACA metal tiers

Metal tiers describe average cost-sharing, not care quality.

- Bronze: lower premium, higher deductible
- Silver: only tier eligible for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSR) if income qualifies — often the best real-world value
- Gold: higher premium, lower cost at the point of care
- Platinum: rarely offered in Oregon and Washington
- Catastrophic: generally under 30 or hardship exemption; not subsidy-eligible