The “second lowest cost silver plan” refers to a specific benchmark used within the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. It is the second least expensive health insurance plan in the silver tier available to an individual in a defined service area. This particular plan serves as the reference point for calculating the amount of premium tax credits (subsidies) that eligible individuals and families receive to help them afford health insurance coverage purchased through the marketplace. For example, if the premium for the second lowest cost silver plan is $500 per month and an individual’s calculated contribution is $200 per month, they would receive a premium tax credit of $300 per month.
The importance of this benchmark stems from its direct impact on affordability for many Americans. By tying premium tax credits to the cost of the second lowest cost silver plan, the ACA aims to ensure that health insurance remains accessible, particularly for those with lower incomes. Historically, the implementation of this system has significantly expanded health insurance coverage across the nation. The availability and pricing of these plans influence enrollment decisions and the overall stability of the ACA marketplaces. These plans also impact cost-sharing reductions available to eligible individuals who enroll in a silver-level plan.