ACA enrollment sinks sharply as coverage costs soar in 2026

Updated on: January 13, 2026 / 3:33 PM EST / CBS News

ACA enrollment sinks sharply as coverage costs soar in 2026

TL;DR

  • 22.8 million people have enrolled in ACA coverage for 2026, a decrease of 1.4 million from the previous year.
  • Nationally, enrollment is down by 3.5% compared to the same period last year.
  • The decline in enrollment is linked to the expiration of tax credits on December 31, which previously lowered monthly health plan costs.
  • Without extended tax credits, premiums could increase by an average of 114% for over 20 million Americans who received subsidies last year.
  • Experts estimate that 4 million people may lose their insurance if the credits are not extended.
  • The House of Representatives has approved legislation to preserve enhanced subsidies for three years, but its fate is uncertain in the Senate.
  • Some enrollees may transition to employer health plans or qualify for Medicaid, while others may go without insurance temporarily.