North Carolina has approved premium increases for ACA marketplace plans ranging from 12.66% to 36.40% for 2026, amid ongoing debates over federal subsidies and rising healthcare costs, which could lead to significant sticker shock and coverage drop-offs for many residents.
Open enrollment for ACA health plans begins soon, but premiums are expected to rise significantly due to the expiration of tax credits, impacting over 24 million enrollees, especially in red states and among middle-income seniors, potentially increasing the uninsured rate and straining hospitals.
Health insurance companies in Texas are requesting an average premium increase of 24% for ACA plans in 2026, driven by rising healthcare costs and the expiration of expanded tax credits, which could lead to higher costs for consumers and a potential shrinking of the marketplace, especially affecting rural, low-income, and elderly populations.
Millions of Americans face significant increases in ACA premiums and potential loss of subsidies in 2026 due to policy changes and rising healthcare costs, which could lead to higher out-of-pocket expenses and a decline in enrollment, with political debates ongoing about extending more generous tax credits.