Money

Cost-Sharing Reductions (CSR)

Extra savings that shrink your deductible

Michael Furman
Reviewed by Michael Furman, COO — 24 years in insurance · MDRT Top of the Table
NovaVida Group licensed team · Updated August 2026

Cost-sharing reductions are extra savings that lower your deductible, copays, and out-of-pocket maximum — on top of a premium tax credit. They’re only available on Silver plans, and only if your income qualifies.

Why Silver Can Be the Smart Pick

If your income qualifies for cost-sharing reductions, a Silver plan can effectively give you Gold- or Platinum-level coverage at a Silver price — a much lower deductible and out-of-pocket max. That’s why “just buy Bronze to save money” is often the wrong move for lower-income households. We’ll check whether CSR changes the math for you.

Fast Facts

  • Lowers deductibles, copays and out-of-pocket max
  • Available only on Silver Marketplace plans
  • Based on income (roughly up to 250% of poverty)
  • Applied automatically when you qualify

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Quick answers

Frequently Asked

Do I have to do anything to get cost-sharing reductions?

Just apply through the Marketplace and choose a Silver plan if you qualify. The enhanced benefits are built into the plan automatically — you’ll see the lower deductible and copays reflected in the Silver plans you’re eligible for.