Why did my monthly premium increase for 2026?

If your "low-premium" or "$0 plan" is gone, it is likely due to the expiration of the Enhanced ACA Tax Credits.

For the last few years, federal legislation provided extra subsidies that lowered premiums for almost everyone and eliminated the "subsidy cliff" for middle-income earners.

However, that legislation ended on December 31, 2025.

The Impact for 2026:

Higher Share of Cost: Even if your income stayed exactly the same, the federal government now requires you to contribute a higher percentage of your income toward your insurance.
The Return of the "Cliff": If your household income is now above 400% of the Federal Poverty Level, you may no longer qualify for any tax credits at all.
Medical Inflation: Outside of taxes, carriers have increased base rates due to the rising costs of prescription drugs and hospital services.

Current Legislative Update (January 2026)

The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed a bill to extend these credits for three more years. The vote is currently with the Senate.

While bipartisan negotiations are ongoing, a final deal has not yet been reached.

If a late extension is passed, your subsidies could be adjusted mid-year, but for now, we must plan based on the rates currently available.

Our Strategy: "Modern Plan Design"

Often, switching carriers or to a lower-premium Bronze plan and adding a Supplemental plan (like Accident or Hospital Insurance) provides better total protection for a lower monthly cost than a high-premium Silver plan.