TEXAS – The cost of healthcare is about to spike for millions of Americans, and Texans might see even higher increases than the national average.
The federal tax credits that have made health plans affordable are set to end this year. If Congress doesn’t step in to renew them, Texans could face significant premium hikes in the upcoming year.
Currently, Texas is one of ten states that did not expand Medicaid in 2012, leaving millions reliant on private insurance plans purchased through the federal marketplace. With open enrollment starting on November 4 for 2026 coverage, many are bracing for serious “sticker shock.” Experts predict that average health insurance premiums could soar by about 75% nationwide. For Texas, the increase could exceed 115%. This could push the average monthly cost for a family from around $1,600 to more than $3,400.
Approximately 3.3 million Texans buy their insurance independently. About a million of these residents gained coverage due to the expanded tax credits. Without this financial assistance, experts worry that many people will lose their insurance altogether.
“When those tax credits disappear, many Texans who found affordable coverage will soon face much steeper costs—often doubling their premiums,” said Blake Hutson from the Texas Association of Health Plans.
Stephen Love, president of the DFW Hospital Council, added, “Even without clarity on the future of these credits, insurance providers had to prepare for the worst. They’ve adjusted premiums based on uncertainty.” This anxiety has resulted in a significant uptick in the number of insured Texans since the credits were introduced. Before they were available, only about one million Texans were insured. Now, that number has soared to nearly four million.
Texas already struggles with the highest rate of uninsured residents in the nation, standing at around 17%. Officials warn this could surge past 20%, leading to more people without access to healthcare. Love pointed out the troubling implications: “When you walk down the street, every fifth person you see may be uninsured. This overcrowding will burden emergency rooms and compromise patient care.”
For those shopping for insurance this open enrollment season, it’s important to examine available options closely. There may still be tax credits that can help make insurance more affordable. “Input your family’s information and see what works for you,” Hutson suggests.
Open enrollment continues until January 15. However, any rises in costs won’t take effect until the 2026 plan year, unless Congress intervenes with the tax credits.
For further insights on healthcare in Texas, consult the Texas Association of Health Plans or the DFW Hospital Council.
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