Overview
- New KFF analysis shows insurers' average 2026 premium hikes of about 26% nationwide, with increases around 30% on HealthCare.gov and 17% on state-run exchanges.
- If enhanced tax credits expire on Dec. 31, KFF estimates average out-of-pocket premium payments would rise about 114%, while CBO projects roughly 3.5 million fewer people insured in 2027.
- Healthcare.gov posted 2026 plan prices for window shopping ahead of Nov. 1 open enrollment, as federal navigator assistance was cut about 90% earlier this year.
- CMS Administrator Mehmet Oz downplayed the projected spike by citing $50 bronze options and a $13 average monthly increase after standard credits, and he incorrectly said KFF had retracted its analysis.
- State filings and announcements point to steep localized shocks and cite rising hospital and drug costs and expected adverse selection, with examples including Wisconsin projections of 200%–800%, Colorado saying costs will double, and Idaho reporting 75% higher net premiums for many.