Health subsidies expire, launching millions of Americans into 2026 with steep insurance hikes
ABC News••general
Key Points:
- Enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits that lowered health insurance costs for millions expired at the start of 2026, leading to significant premium increases for many enrollees.
- The expiration followed political stalemates, including a 43-day government shutdown, failed Senate votes, and mixed efforts from Democrats and Republicans to extend the subsidies.
- Average premiums for over 20 million subsidized ACA enrollees are projected to rise by 114% in 2026, causing financial strain and prompting some to consider dropping coverage.
- Analysts predict that higher premiums may lead up to 4.8 million Americans to forgo insurance, potentially increasing costs for remaining older and sicker enrollees.
- Many affected individuals
