Navigating ACA Marketplace plans as a young adult

Are you shopping for your own health insurance for the first time? Like many young adults, you may feel like there’s a lot to learn about health care plans. Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace plans may be a good option to consider, because they’re designed to provide comprehensive health coverage at affordable prices. Let’s learn more about ACA plans and health insurance coverage.

Even if you don’t think you need health coverage now, it’s important to be prepared. Medical expenses can be high, and without insurance to cover some of the costs, even a minor illness or injury could result in financial strain. Health coverage helps protect you from financial risks associated with medical bills, so you can feel more confident accessing the care you need. 

All UnitedHealthcare Individual & Family ACA Marketplace plans cover 10 essential health benefits, including doctor visits, hospitalization, prescription drugs, mental health services and preventive care. 

To help make shopping for an ACA Marketplace plan easier, health plans are organized into 3 metal levels: bronze, silver and gold. Metal levels determine how you and your health plan will split the cost of care. UnitedHealthcare offers a range of Individual & Family ACA Marketplace plans in these 3 metal levels, called plan families. Choose from essential coverage plans or plans with extra benefits, depending on your budget and the type of care you need. 

UnitedHealthcare Individual & Family ACA Marketplace plans are eligible for subsidies (savings) that may lower the cost of your monthly premiums. More than 20 million people enrolled in our ACA plans in 2024. Of those, 92% received financial assistance — and nearly 50% of plan members pay $10 or less each month for their premium.¹

Under the ACA, you cannot be denied coverage or charged more due to your age, gender or a pre-existing condition, such as asthma or diabetes.² This protection ensures that everyone has access to the care they need.