ACA Premiums Spike as Open Enrollment Begins

Open enrollment for ACA marketplace plans begins Nov. 1, but millions face steep premium increases because Congress has not extended enhanced subsidies amid the ongoing federal government shutdown. State and national analyses show large hikes: Kentucky projects about 37% increases for 2026, Minnesota's individual market averages 21.5% (14.2% for small group), KFF finds roughly 30% increases in federally run marketplaces versus 17% in state-run markets, and New Jersey projections exceed 175% in some cases. Many consumers above 400% of the federal poverty level will lose financial assistance entirely, while others will see much smaller tax credits, pushing some to switch plans, accept greater out-of-pocket risk, or forgo coverage. Governors and Democratic leaders are urging Congress to extend the subsidies as part of a shutdown-ending deal, while House Republicans say they prefer separate negotiations, deepening the political impasse. Insurers have raised rates amid the uncertainty, and officials are urging shoppers to compare plans and check whether they still qualify for available tax credits, as the shutdown is also straining federal employees and services and complicating access during the enrollment period.