If you buy health insurance on a state or federal marketplace, the arrival of fall means it’s almost time to pick a health plan. The Affordable Care Act, also called Obamacare, requires most Americans to buy health insurance. This year’s open enrollment period lasts from Nov. 1 to Jan. 31 for anyone buying health insurance on their own, whether for one person or a family. (If you get your health plan through work, your open enrollment time will be decided by your employer.)
Health plans sold through the marketplaces are sorted into tiers — bronze, silver, gold or platinum — based on how much they will help pay your medical bills, on average.
Lacie Glover | NerdWallet