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Eroding ACA enrollment portends higher insurance rates

May 19, 2026 / 5:00 AM EDT / KFF Health News

Eroding ACA enrollment portends higher insurance rates

TL;DR

  • ACA enrollment has decreased, with a significant drop in January compared to the previous year.
  • Average premiums increased by 26% this year, and subsidies have been reduced or eliminated.
  • A substantial percentage of enrollees are reportedly failing to pay their share of premiums, particularly in states without additional financial aid.
  • Insurers anticipate raising rates for the next year due to market uncertainty and declining enrollment trends.
  • The shift towards plans with higher deductibles and lower monthly premiums is a growing trend among consumers.
  • Political challenges exist for the GOP regarding enhanced ACA subsidies, while some critics suggest enrollment drops are also due to fraudulent sign-ups.