Overview
- Enrollment for 2026 marketplace plans runs Nov. 1 through Jan. 15, with a Dec. 15 deadline for coverage starting Jan. 1.
- KFF and market filings show average pre-subsidy premium increases of roughly 26% nationwide, with federal-platform states around 30% and state-run exchanges nearer 17%.
- If Congress lets the enhanced credits lapse at year-end, KFF estimates subsidized enrollees’ monthly payments would rise about 114% on average, and CBO projects millions could become uninsured.
- The shutdown has stalled a vote on extending the credits, with Democrats seeking an extension as part of reopening and Republicans insisting on reopening before negotiations, prompting some consumers to wait before enrolling.
- Advisers urge shoppers to compare plans, consider lower-premium bronze options and local help, and note that older buyers and those just over 400% of the federal poverty level would face the steepest hits without the enhanced aid.