If you’re one of the millions of Americans shopping for Affordable Care Act (ACA) insurance, there’s still time to enroll for 2026. However, rising premiums and the end of enhanced tax subsidies are making things tougher.
Many shoppers are reaching out to brokers or ACA marketplace call centers for guidance. “We’re hearing from people with serious health needs who are worried about losing access to care,” says Audrey Morse Gasteier, head of the Massachusetts Health Connector.
Some folks are even looking at insurance options outside the ACA due to cost concerns. But that could be risky. Congress isn’t likely to renew the enhanced subsidies by the year’s end. Recently, a conservative-backed package passed in the House, but it’s expected to face challenges in the Senate. Meanwhile, a bipartisan group of lawmakers is trying to push for a vote on extending subsidies early next year.
The open enrollment deadline is fast approaching, ending on January 15 for coverage starting February 1. In many states, it’s already too late to sign up for coverage starting January 1.
Here are five important considerations for shoppers:
1. Short-Term Insurance Plans: Are They Right for You?
Some shoppers might consider short-term insurance plans, often pitched by brokers. They are cheaper than ACA plans but come with significant limitations. These plans often don’t cover essential services like maternity care and may even impose caps on benefits. If you have preexisting health conditions, be cautious: insurers can deny coverage or drop you retroactively.
“You have to be healthy to qualify,” warns Ronnell Nolan, president of Health Agents of America. Also, these plans are available in only 36 states, with some states like California banning them entirely.
2. Watch for Limited Coverage
Other plans, like indemnity or faith-based sharing plans, can sound appealing but lack comprehensive coverage. An indemnity plan might only pay a fixed amount for hospital stays, leaving you to cover the rest. Faith-based sharing plans rely on member contributions but don’t guarantee payments, potentially leaving you vulnerable.
“These options are cheap but not ideal,” Nolan adds. “You need to know exactly what you’re signing up for.”
3. Bronze or Catastrophic Plans Can Help, but Watch the Deductibles
If you prefer sticking with ACA coverage, consider “bronze” or “catastrophic” plans, which typically have lower premiums. However, they come with higher deductibles—averaging nearly $7,500 nationally. New for 2026, adults of any age losing enhanced subsidies may now apply for catastrophic plans as well, which can cover significant emergencies but also carry hefty out-of-pocket limits.
Lauren Jenkins, an insurance broker, has seen clients with low incomes facing significant cost increases next year. “Many had affordable options this year, but now they’re looking at much higher premiums,” she explains.
4. Shop Around for Better Premiums
Don’t forget to compare plans. Sometimes, a different ACA plan from the same insurer could offer a lower premium. Oddly, “gold” plans can occasionally cost less than “silver” plans in some regions. “It varies a lot depending on location,” Brooker points out.
Additionally, those who run small businesses might qualify for a group plan, which can be cheaper than individual coverage.
5. Keep an Eye on the Rules
Insurance experts recommend not waiting until the last minute. Start by updating your application on the official ACA website to check your options for 2026. Remember, some subsidies are still available, but they will decrease, affecting households earning over four times the poverty level.
To ensure you’re on the right page, visit the official ACA site, as there are lookalike sites that may not offer accredited plans. Don’t forget: you’ll need to pay your first premium for coverage to kick in.
In summary, navigating the ACA can feel overwhelming, but with careful planning, you can find the right coverage regardless of your circumstances. For more insights, check out resources like KFF Health News for reliable information on health policy and rankings.
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