Overview
- KFF estimates show insurers’ gross premiums rising about 26% in 2026 and average consumer payments could jump roughly 114% if the expanded credits end.
- Open enrollment started Nov. 1 with HealthCare.gov posting 2026 prices; key deadlines are Dec. 15 for Jan. 1 coverage and Jan. 15 for the close of enrollment.
- A budget standoff entering its second month centers on whether to extend COVID-era ACA premium tax credits that are scheduled to end after 2025.
- Maryland has set up state-funded subsidies and says implementing or reversing changes for 240,000 enrollees could take about three weeks, including insurer rate resubmissions and consumer notices.
- Covered California says it can recalculate bills within about a week and notify consumers within weeks, while some commentary downplays worst-case scenarios and cites CMS data that about 60% of enrollees would still see plans at $50 a month or less under original subsidies.