Health subsidies expire, launching millions of Americans into 2026 with steep insurance hikes
6abc Philadelphia••general
Key Points:
- Enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits that lowered health insurance costs for most enrollees expired at the start of 2026, leading to significant premium increases for millions of Americans.
- The expiration affects a wide range of individuals, including self-employed workers, small business owners, and farmers who do not receive employer insurance or qualify for Medicaid or Medicare.
- Premiums for subsidized enrollees are projected to rise by an average of 114% in 2026, with some facing monthly costs that have doubled or tripled, causing financial strain and potential loss of coverage.
- Analysts predict that many healthier, younger enrollees may drop coverage due to higher costs, potentially increasing expenses for older and sicker individuals
