by David Tesitor
Some Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance tax credits are scheduled to expire at the end of 2025, unless they are extended by federal legislation. It’s important to be informed as we approach Open Enrollment for 2026, especially if you rely on a Marketplace health plan.
With the uncertainty, it is important to understand how changes in the enhanced ACA Tax Credits could impact you. First, your ACA health insurance premiums for the remainder of 2025 will stay the same. Since 2021, enhanced premium tax credits have increased the financial help available to individuals to pay their Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance premiums. If enhanced premium tax credits are not extended, they will expire on December 31, 2025. As of now, this is an uncertainty, which is why it is important to sit down with a Certified expert to look at your options.
Premium tax credits, also known as subsidies, will still be available in 2026, but the amounts may be lower. This means you could pay more out of pocket for Marketplace coverage. These changes impact those enrolling in or renewing a Marketplace health insurance plan for 2026 coverage. In many larger areas of Colorado, many companies are pulling out of the ACA marketplace, but for now, many of the rural counties will have some choices. In the World Journal area, Anthem will remain in the area, but premiums may significantly increase.
Understanding Your 2026 Health Insurance Costs
Whether you’re new to the Health Insurance Marketplace or are already enrolled, you’ll receive details about your plan options and premium costs by November 2025. There are measures that you as an individual must take to ensure there are no surprises for next year. Keep an eye out for mail and digital communications from your carrier as well as Healthcare.gov, or your state-based exchange, as the 2026 Open Enrollment period approaches.
Begin gathering income documentation, such as recent pay stubs, W-2s, 1099s, or prior-year tax returns, especially if you’re a freelancer or self-employed contractor with variable income.
If you’ve received ACA tax credits to lower your monthly premium payment, you must file a federal tax return and complete Form 8962: Premium Tax Credit. There are ways to reduce the taxable income, such as contributing to a qualified retirement plan or an Health Savings Account.
If you have a Marketplace profile, make sure it reflects your current household size, dependent status, and mailing address. These details can impact your eligibility for premium tax credits.
Begin reviewing your healthcare needs with your broker or contact the exchange and budget now so you’re prepared to choose the best plan for your family when Open Enrollment begins. Visit the ACA Marketplace during the Open Enrollment Period to find a plan that suits your needs and budget
Other factors that could influence your monthly ACA premium in 2026 are your age, location, plan type, household income and size and tobacco use. Changes to these factors, as well as shifts in medical costs and other changes in the healthcare marketplace may have an impact on your premium from year to year.
The good news is that help is available. A Certified representative or Broker can help guide you through upcoming changes so you can confidently choose the right ACA Marketplace plan for 2026. If you have any questions, you can contact us. If you’re not sure which health plan is right for you, we can help. Just answer a few questions to find your plan.
