EXPLAINER: How to navigate Affordable Care Act enrollment

NEW YORK (AP) — The vast majority of Americans will find multiple options for health insurance coverage for 2023 on HealthCare.gov after open enrollment began Tuesday under the Affordable Care Act.

People searching for plans on the government marketplace should consider their budget, health, doctors and a variety of other factors before picking a plan.

Currently, more than 14.5 million people get their health insurance through the ACA, commonly known as “Obamacare.” The number swelled during the coronavirus pandemic after Congress passed generous subsidies to make coverage more affordable.

While most people have three or more options, about 8% of participants will choose from only two insurance carriers, a number that drops to one in rural counties across Alabama, Alaska, Arizona and Texas.

According to the Biden administration, 80% of consumers should be able to find a plan for $10 or less per month after tax credits.

Here’s a look at navigating the Affordable Care Act marketplace:

HOW DOES THE MARKETPLACE WORK?

The ACA marketplace is geared toward people who don't have health insurance through their job, Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program or another source.

While most states use the federal marketplace at HealthCare.gov, some have set up their own. These are: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont plus the District of Columbia.

Premium tax credits and other savings reducing the cost of insurance are based on income and the number of people in your family. For example, individuals with an annual income between $13,590 and $54,360 are eligible for a subsidy. Those who make less than that qualify for...