The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) published consumer guidance on choosing health coverage for 2026, warning that premiums could be higher for people enrolled in Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance Marketplace plans as financial assistance is expected to decline. For Marketplace coverage bought through HealthCare.gov or state exchanges, the NAIC highlights that the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits are scheduled to end after 2025, which could materially increase 2026 premium out-of-pocket costs, although some consumers may still qualify for help based on income and applicants will be screened for Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program. Open enrollment is set to run from 1 November 2025 through 15 January 2026, with some state variations, and the NAIC encourages consumers to compare plan premiums, out-of-pocket costs and benefits, while cautioning that products marketed as alternatives to insurance, including health care sharing ministries, discount plans and risk-sharing plans, are not insurance and are not regulated by consumer protection laws.
National Association Of Insurance Commissioners 2025-10-24
United States' National Association of Insurance Commissioners issues guidance on 2026 health plan options as enhanced ACA Marketplace subsidies are set to end
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) issued guidance on selecting 2026 health coverage, noting potential ACA Marketplace premium increases due to reduced financial assistance. The NAIC emphasizes that enhanced ACA premium tax credits will end after 2025, potentially raising out-of-pocket costs, though some consumers may still qualify for aid based on income. Consumers are advised to compare plan costs and benefits and be cautious of non-insurance products not covered by consumer protection laws.