Medical Expense✓ Verified · outline & fact-checked · Sep 2026Difficulty 2/5
Cost-sharing reduction (CSR) subsidies under the ACA are available to enrollees with household income between what percentages of the FPL, and only when they enroll in which metal tier?
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Answer & full 3-part explanation (select an option above, or peek)
Why B is correct
CSR lowers the out-of-pocket costs of eligible marketplace enrollees, but the subsidy is available only on Silver-tier plans. The ACA sets the eligibility band at 138%-250% FPL, so households in that income range who choose a Silver plan receive reduced deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, and a lower out-of-pocket maximum. Below 138% FPL individuals typically qualify for Medi-Cal instead, and enrollees above the band do not receive CSRs.
Why the other options are wrong
- A) Below 138% FPL, adults generally qualify for Medi-Cal rather than a marketplace CSR; Bronze is not the tier that carries CSR benefits.
- C) The 250%-400% band may receive premium tax credits, but cost-sharing reductions stop at 250% FPL.
- D) CSRs are not available at 0%-138% FPL because Medi-Cal covers that population, and Platinum is not the CSR tier.
Memory hook
CSR lives on Silver, between 138% and 250% FPL. Lower copays, but only if you pick Silver.