Overview

• A KFF analysis of preliminary filings from 312 insurers in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., shows a median 18% premium hike request—the largest since 2018.
• Carriers cite the scheduled expiration of American Rescue Plan and Inflation Reduction Act subsidies alongside rising medical utilization and drug prices as key drivers.
• Rate proposals remain preliminary and could be revised during state regulatory reviews, with major payers like Aetna and UnitedHealthcare considering bid refilings or market exits.
• Without congressional extension of enhanced tax credits, subsidized enrollee premiums may jump over 75% in January 2026, potentially prompting healthier individuals to drop coverage.
• State leaders including Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders have urged insurance commissioners to disapprove excessive filings, foreshadowing regulatory pushback.