Your share of the cost for a specific service (e.g., a $30 flat copay for a doctor visit or a 20% coinsurance for a hospital stay).

Often the most affordable option as employers typically pay about 83% of individual premiums.

The amount you pay out-of-pocket for covered services before your insurance starts to pay.

You can buy "off-exchange" plans directly from companies like Anthem or Cigna , though these usually don't qualify for government tax credits. Step 2: Decode Key Financial Terms