Catastrophic plans

What it is

Catastrophic plans are real ACA plans — full essential health benefits, preexisting-condition protection, an out-of-pocket maximum — with the lowest premiums and a deductible set at the annual out-of-pocket limit. You also get three primary care visits per year and preventive care before the deductible. They're designed as "don't go bankrupt" coverage.

Who it fits

Historically, only people under 30 or those with a hardship exemption. Starting with plan year 2026, CMS expanded eligibility beyond under-30s — which makes this tier newly relevant for older shoppers priced out by the subsidy expiration. [VERIFY AT BUILD: confirm the exact expanded-eligibility criteria for PY2027 before publishing specifics.] The classic fit: healthy, rarely sees a doctor, wants real protection against a genuine catastrophe at the lowest possible monthly cost.

What it costs, in plain ranges

The cheapest premiums on the Marketplace — but note the deductible: you pay essentially everything (after your three primary care visits) until you hit the annual out-of-pocket maximum.

The honest catch

Premium tax credits cannot be applied to catastrophic plans. If you qualify for a subsidy, a subsidized Bronze plan frequently costs less per month than an unsubsidized catastrophic plan — always compare both. Catastrophic plans only win when you get no subsidy at all.

How it compares

Think of it as Bronze's stripped-down sibling for the unsubsidized. If you're over 400% FPL and gasping at full-price premiums, this tier belongs on your shortlist — next to, not instead of, the Bronze comparison.