Reviewed for accuracy on November 2, 2026 by Tina Price, one of Grove's licensed advisors.
Enhanced silver plans: lower deductibles if your income qualifies
If your income is up to 250% of the federal poverty level, pick a silver plan through Connect for Health Colorado. You get a lower deductible, lower copays and a lower out-of-pocket maximum. You only get them on silver.
Last updated November 2, 2026
The short version
- These savings are called cost-sharing reductions. They apply only to silver plans.
- The lower your income, the bigger the savings.
- Off-exchange plans never include them.
- Compare an enhanced silver plan with bronze on the bad-year cost, not just the monthly price.
What you get
With an enhanced silver plan, you pay less when you use care. The deductible is lower, copays and coinsurance are lower, and the out-of-pocket maximum is lower.
Depending on income, enhanced silver plans pay about 73%, 87%, or 94% of costs. A regular silver plan pays about 70%.
Who qualifies
Households with income up to 250% of the federal poverty level who qualify for the tax credit. The lower your income in that range, the more you save.
You must buy the plan through Connect for Health Colorado. Off-exchange plans can't include these savings.
Why it can beat bronze
A bronze plan can have a lower monthly price and a much higher deductible. If you need care, the silver plan can cost less over the year.
Compare the bad-year cost: twelve months of premiums plus the out-of-pocket maximum.
How to get it
Apply through Connect for Health Colorado and choose a silver plan. Your eligibility notice shows whether you qualify, and the silver plans you see then show the lower amounts.
Next step
A licensed Grove advisor can compare enhanced silver with your other options before you enroll, at no cost.
Want a person to check your pick? A licensed Grove advisor will, at no cost. If you make Grove your broker, you can keep calling the same advisor after you enroll.
Compare plansPrices in your countyCall (970) 840-1130
Common questions
Do I get it on a gold or bronze plan?
No. Cost-sharing reductions apply only to silver plans.
What if my income changes?
Report it to Connect for Health Colorado. Your savings, and your tax credit, can change with it.
Sources
- HealthCare.gov: cost-sharing reductions (save on out-of-pocket costs)
- HealthCare.gov: plan categories (bronze, silver, gold, platinum)
- HealthCare.gov glossary: federal poverty level
- Connect for Health Colorado: get financial help
This guide is general information, not tax or legal advice. Connect for Health Colorado decides eligibility and tax credits.