BIG Changes Coming to ACA / Marketplace / Obamacare Subsidies

Unless Congress and the President act, the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits (PTCs) enacted in 2021 under the American Rescue Plan are set to expire at the end of 2025.

What This Means for You

• Subsidies will decrease, and your monthly premiums could increase dramatically. In Western North Carolina, the Kaiser Family Foundation estimates increases in excess of 300% for some households.​
• See how much more you could pay if subsidies expire: ​www.kff.org/interactive/how-much-more-would-people-pay-in-premiums-if-the-acas-enhanced-subsidies-expired/

The 400% Cliff is Returning

• If your income exceeds 400% of the federal poverty level, you’ll no longer be eligible for any subsidy:
  • Single: $60,250
  • Couple: $82,800
  • Family of 4: $125,000
  You would be responsible for the full cost of your insurance.
  More Verification Likely
  Starting in 2026, the Marketplace may require more documentation of your income estimate to qualify for discounts. ​

Click to read: "Tales of Whoa" ...Examples of what can happen with the loss of these tax credits. 

Enrollment Period
You’ll still have until January 15, 2026 to enroll or make changes to your plan during Open Enrollment (Nov. 1 – Jan. 15).

Fifty Plus
The Marketplace may require more verification of your income estimate for 2026 to be eligible for these premium discounts. The only good news is we will still have until January 15, 2026 to enroll or change your plan. Fifty Plus- Click Here. 

How We’re Helping
At Trout Insurance, we’re actively exploring solutions to help offset rising costs:
• Accident & Hospital Indemnity Plans
• Critical Illness Coverage
• Short-Term Medical Plans
• Group Plans & Supplemental Coverage through your employer
We’ll keep you informed with the latest plan options and provide personalized support to help you find affordable coverage.

What Can We Do As Citizens?
The First Amendment (Bill of Rights) gives us the right to petition the government. It says: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."

Contact your elected officials and urge them to extend or make permanent the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits. 

For more info and contact details, visit www.TUHI.net

Next Steps: Get Ready for 2026
To help us find the best plan for your needs and budget, please prepare the following:
• Your estimated 2026 household income
• The names of your Primary Care Doctor and Specialists 
• Your plan priorities (prescriptions, mental health, etc.)

Note: Aetna will be leaving the Health Insurance Marketplace in our area. If you're currently enrolled with Aetna, you'll need to select a new plan during Open Enrollment.

Marketplace Plan Prep Checklist 

And from BCBSNC - Their take on ACA health insurance in 2026​

Update Your Information For 2026