Overview
- HealthCare.gov and state marketplaces opened Nov. 1 for 2026 coverage, with a Dec. 15 deadline to start Jan. 1 and final sign-ups due Jan. 15.
- Expanded premium tax credits that boosted affordability since 2021 are set to expire at year’s end and are tied to the ongoing shutdown dispute in Congress.
- Insurer filings point to sizable pre-subsidy hikes for 2026, with reports of roughly 35% increases in some areas and Kentucky’s governor citing a 37% jump for Kynect enrollees.
- Consumer advisers urge shoppers to compare plans carefully and, if feasible, wait until early December to see whether Congress extends the enhanced subsidies.
- Impacts will vary by income and location, as Texas analyses still find zero-premium options under 200% of the federal poverty level while those above 400% FPL face the steepest hits if enhancements lapse.