Sticker Shock for ACA Shoppers: 2026 Premium Increases and Policy Gridlock
Sticker shock for ACA shoppers
As enhanced premium tax credits face expiration, many Marketplace enrollees could see monthly premiums jump sharply, returning to the pre‑enhancement subsidy rules that limit eligibility and reduce assistance levels for 2026 coverage, leaving shoppers with substantially higher out‑of‑pocket costs if Congress does not act.
Policy gridlock and consequences
Lawmakers are running out of time to extend or modify the temporary boosts that broadened eligibility and lowered payments, and without an agreement insurers’ proposed 2026 rate increases could combine with subsidy rollbacks to produce large premium increases and a renewed “subsidy cliff,” pushing some middle‑income households to reconsider coverage choices.
What consumers should know
Consumers should check projected premiums, explore state programs and marketplace options during open enrollment, and follow legislation closely because even short extensions or targeted fixes would materially change annual costs for many enrollees.
