Originally published December 2, 2024, last updated on August 4, 2026
When you enroll in a Silver-tier plan, you may qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSRs). CSRs are discounts that lower your out-of-pocket costs when you use your insurance, reducing the amount you pay for deductibles, copayments, and prescription medication. CSRs are available only when you enroll in a Silver-tier plan. If you qualify and choose a Silver plan, you can save money on the care you receive.
When you shop for health insurance through Your Health Idaho, you will notice plans are divided into four metal tiers: Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze. Each tier represents how you and your plan share costs. Understanding the differences can help you choose a plan that fits both your health needs and your budget.
What are Cost-Sharing Reductions?
CSRs are additional savings that lower the costs associated with using your health insurance plan. While Bronze plans have the lowest monthly premiums, they also come with higher out-of-pocket costs when you need care. Silver plans offer a middle ground, with moderate premiums and moderate out-of-pocket costs. But what makes Silver plans unique is the potential for additional savings through CSRs.
Examples of what CSRs can reduce:
- Deductables
- Copayments for doctor visits
- Prescription medications
- Out-of-pocket maximums
Who qualifies for CSRs?
CSRs are available to individuals and families with household incomes between 100% and 250% of the Federal Poverty Level. If you qualify for a premium tax credit and your income falls within that range, you may also be eligible for these extra savings when you enroll in a Silver plan. You will also have a lower out-of-pocket maximum, meaning the total amount you pay for covered services in a plan year is reduced. Once you meet that limit, your plan covers 100% of covered services.
Cost-Sharing Reductions in Action
The chart below shows how CSRs can reduce your out-of-pocket costs. For example, a Silver plan with CSR benefits can lower a $50 copay to $25 and reduce a $17,800 deductible to $5,000.
Example of savings
| Bronze Plan | Silver Plan with CSR |
| $50 Copay | $25 Copay |
| $17,800 Deductible | $5,000 Deductible |
| $18,900 Out-of-Pocket Maximum | $12,700 Out-of-Pocket Maximum |
Deciding which health insurance plan to choose requires careful consideration of your healthcare needs and financial situation. While Bronze plans may look appealing due to their low premiums, Silver plans may offer a balanced approach with the potential for substantial savings through Cost-Sharing Reductions. As you explore your options, it is important to evaluate what each plan offers and how it fits into your lifestyle.
How to Check Your Eligibility
Curious if you qualify for CSRs? You can check your eligibility here on YourHealthIdaho.org.
- Complete your household information on our pre-eligibility page to receive a tax credit estimate.
- Once you are taken to the tax estimate page, you will be prompted to provide additional information about your healthcare needs. Provide your responses and continue or skip to opt out of this section.
- You can then filter plans by CSR Eligible and compare them.
*Please note that your tax credit and CSR estimate is an approximation and may differ from the amount you qualify for.
How to Choose a Plan
Silver plans offer a balanced approach to health insurance coverage and can be an especially smart choice if you qualify for CSRs. For many people, lower copays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums mean that a Silver plan with CSRs provides more value than a lower cost Bronze plan. Compared to Bronze plans, Silver plans with CSRs can provide more coverage for the same or even lower cost.
If you are considering a plan, think about how often you visit the doctor, any ongoing prescriptions you take, and what you can afford to pay if an unexpected medical issue arises. A Silver plan with CSRs can help protect you from high costs while still keeping your monthly premium affordable.
Ready to see your options? Visit our pre-eligibility page to check your eligibility or browse available Silver plans. You can also receive help at no cost to you from a certified agent or broker through our Find Help page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Silver-tier plan?
A Silver-tier plan is one of the metal levels offered through Your Health Idaho. Silver plans offer a balance between monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
What are Cost-Sharing Reductions?
Cost-Sharing Reductions are additional savings that lower your out-of-pocket costs when you use your insurance. They reduce deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket maximums. Unlike tax credits, which lower your monthly premium, Cost-Sharing Reductions lower what you pay when you actually receive care.
Who qualifies for Cost-Sharing Reductions?
You may qualify for Cost-Sharing Reductions if your household income is between 100% and 250% of the Federal Poverty Level and you are eligible for a premium tax credit.
Do I have to enroll in a Silver-tier plan to get Cost-Sharing Reductions?
Yes. Cost-Sharing Reductions are only available when you enroll in a Silver-tier plan.