Overview
- Open enrollment is underway with no extension in place for the pandemic‑era enhanced premium tax credits that end on December 31, 2025.
- Insurers have filed 2026 rate proposals with a median increase near 18%, reflecting expectations that some healthier enrollees will drop or downgrade coverage.
- KFF projects average out‑of‑pocket premiums for subsidized enrollees would increase from about $888 in 2025 to roughly $1,904 in 2026 if the credits lapse.
- Household impacts cited by analysts include about $1,200 more per year for a worker earning $28,000 and over $22,600 more for a 60‑year‑old couple making $85,000.
- Advocacy groups are urging the Senate to pass an extension as exchanges prepare for rapid updates, while Yahoo Finance notes President Donald Trump has not moved to continue the subsidies.