Health Insurance Premiums Set to Soar for Millions Under ACA

Arlington, Texas – Millions of Americans are facing skyrocketing health insurance premiums as the enhanced subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) are set to expire at the end of this year. Elizabeth Wick, a 57-year-old therapist, recently received a distressing email from her insurer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas. Her monthly premium for ACA coverage is set to rise from $862 to $1,380 next year.

Wick, who relies on a $400 monthly subsidy to manage her health insurance costs, may no longer qualify for assistance in 2026 if the subsidies lapse as expected. This potential loss of support poses a significant threat to her newly launched private practice, as she has preexisting medical conditions and cannot afford the higher premiums. “Health insurance will determine what my life will look like, whether or not I can continue with my private practice,” Wick said.

Wick is not alone; millions of Americans who enrolled in ACA policies are grappling with the impending demise of enhanced subsidies. As premiums increase, many may face tough decisions, such as cutting back on necessities or forgoing insurance altogether. Federal lawmakers remain at an impasse, with Democrats insisting on extending these subsidies for fiscal year 2026, while Republicans refuse to negotiate until the government reopens.

The enhanced subsidies have allowed many lower-income Americans to acquire coverage at minimal or no costs. These provisions were introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic and significantly increased ACA enrollment, which surged to 24 million in 2025. Over 90% of enrollees receive some form of financial assistance.

As a result of the expiring subsidies, experts expect an average rate increase of 26% in premiums, exacerbated by rising healthcare costs. Various demographics may face harsher consequences. For instance, individuals just above the poverty level may see their premiums leap from nearly zero to several hundred dollars.

Sunni Montgomery, 63, who is battling lung cancer, is also concerned. Her 2025 premium was $541 thanks to the current subsidies, but it’s projected to jump to $1,758 without them. “I have to face the reality that I am probably going to become a late-stage cancer patient who’s uninsured,” Montgomery stated.

Chris and Donna Vetter, a couple from Somerset County, Maryland, have made the tough choice to drop their insurance. With a premium spike to $1,975, nearly half their income, they regretfully decided to skip vital medical care. Chris said, “I’m just scared, and I don’t know what to do.”

Alison and Chris from Carson City, Nevada, similarly debated their options. They currently pay $183 a month due to enhanced subsidies but anticipate their premium to rise to $936 in 2026. “We’re forced to think twice about going to urgent care,” noted Alison.

Among younger Americans, Kris McKegney, 23, expressed dismay over the potential loss of tax credits, stating, “It seems very cruel to then take that away.” He predicted a leap in his premium from $300 to $1,250 monthly. Newlyweds Nolan LeRoux and Emily Clute are even contemplating delaying their marriage to qualify for better subsidies as individuals. They also face a looming premium hike to over $1,360 monthly.

The deadline for Congress to act on the enhancements remains uncertain as negotiations continue amidst a federal government shutdown, leaving millions anxious about their healthcare futures.