Millions of Americans are facing higher health care costs in 2026. The end of COVID-era tax credits related to the Affordable Care Act has left many scrambling for financial relief. According to KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation), premiums could surge by as much as 114%.
This increase is already affecting small business owners, particularly in places like Hatboro, Pennsylvania. Wedding photographer Sarah Cunningham experienced a shocking jump in her health insurance premium. Last month, she paid $35.79, but in January, it soared to $112.96. That’s more than triple!
“I’m a business owner, so I don’t have a boss to help cover my health insurance,” Cunningham explains. With an annual income of around $55,000 from her photography business, she’s now concentrating more than ever on her finances. She feels frustrated that Congress didn’t extend subsidies for Affordable Care Act plans.
“A lot of politicians, no matter their party, need to pay attention to middle and lower-class Americans,” she says. Cunningham is looking for ways to manage the increased costs; she plans to rent out her studio space to podcasters and other photographers. She’s even thinking about picking up a second job with Uber Eats, which helped her earn extra income in the past.
Health insurance is crucial for Cunningham, especially after a cervical cancer scare years ago. With rising grocery prices and car insurance costs, she finds herself needing to work more hours just to get by.
Data from recent surveys underscore her concerns. A poll conducted by the American Psychological Association found that nearly two-thirds of respondents worry about affording health care. This anxiety is not just seen among the self-employed but across many demographics as the cost of living continues to rise.
In this context, it’s clear that health care affordability is more than just a political issue; it’s a real crisis affecting everyday lives. As America navigates these challenging economic waters, stories like Cunningham’s highlight the urgent need for solutions. For more information on the impact of health care costs, visit the Kaiser Family Foundation.
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Pennsylvania, Affordable Care Act, Montgomery County
