Open enrollment for ACA (Affordable Care Act) health plans started on November 1, 2025, and many people are seeing shocking numbers for next year. The reason? The extra tax credits that help lower monthly ACA premiums are set to expire at the end of 2025. Without them, health insurance could get really expensive.

How Bad Could It Get?

For some, the increases are massive. Stacy Cox, a photographer in Utah, currently pays $495 a month for her and her husband’s health insurance. Without the tax credits, their 2026 premium jumps to $2,168 a month, that’s more than triple what they pay now!

“It’s devastating because we can’t afford it,” Cox said. “That’s more than our mortgage, insurance, and food. We can’t pay double just to have health insurance.”

Even if the tax credits are extended, their monthly bill would still rise to about $753. That’s a big hit to their budget, but better than nothing.

Beth Dryer from Virginia is in a similar situation. Her premium was around $80 a month, but without credits, it could soar to $425. That’s more than she can afford, meaning she might have to drop coverage altogether.

Why Are Costs Rising?

The huge increases come from the possible end of enhanced ACA subsidies. These credits currently help 22 million out of 24 million marketplace enrollees pay less each month. Without them, the average premium could go up 114%, more than doubling for many people.

Even if the credits continue, insurance companies are expected to raise premiums by around 26% in 2026 because healthcare costs are rising.

The ongoing government shutdown has made things worse. Democrats want the subsidies extended before reopening the government. Some Republicans want to deal with it later. Until they agree, millions of people don’t know what they’ll pay next year.

The Real-Life Impact

For Cox, losing affordable health insurance isn’t just about money, it’s about health. She has an autoimmune disease, and her husband has a heart condition. Without coverage, they’d have to rely on emergency insurance, which doesn’t cover regular checkups, mammograms, or ongoing care.

Beth Dryer is also worried. “You cut these tax credits, people are dying,” she said. “People already can’t afford quality healthcare.”

Experts warn that if the credits end, 7 million people may drop ACA coverage, and 4–5 million could lose insurance completely.

What You Can Do

1. Don’t Wait – Open enrollment runs until January 15, 2026. Check your plan now.

2. Compare Plans – Use the marketplace website to see your options. Even small changes can save money.

3. Have a Backup Plan – If credits aren’t extended, consider saving money for medical costs or emergency insurance, but remember it won’t cover regular healthcare.

Why This Matters

These tax credits are a lifeline for millions. If lawmakers don’t act, health insurance could become unaffordable for many families. Some Republicans oppose continuing the credits, while some support them. Until a decision is made, people like Stacy Cox and Beth Dryer face uncertainty about their health coverage next year.

Bottom Line

ACA premiums could spike dramatically in 2026 if tax credits expire. Open enrollment is your chance to review your options, plan ahead, and make sure you don’t lose coverage. The earlier you act, the better prepared you’ll be.

Health insurance can feel confusing, and these changes for 2026 make it even harder. But you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Brian has simple, practical ways to help you lower your monthly costs, understand your best options, and choose a plan that actually fits your budget.

If you’re worried about what’s happening or you just want clear answers, go ahead and schedule an appointment. Brian will walk you through everything step by step.