Health insurers are requesting a median premium increase of 15% for health insurance plans on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) exchanges for the 2026 coverage year, according to a recent analysis by KFF and the Peterson Center on Healthcare.
The analysis highlights growing concerns among insurers regarding long-term policy direction and stability, particularly as federal funding and regulatory frameworks for ACA marketplaces continue to evolve. Uncertainty around issues such as the expiration of enhanced premium subsidies from the American Rescue Plan Act and inflation-related cost pressures are cited as key drivers of the requested rate hikes.
Market fluctuations and increased healthcare costs, including rising prescription drug prices and hospital expenses, are also contributing factors to the proposed premium increases. Insurance providers indicate that without clear federal commitments or policy stability, they must account for potential financial risks in their 2026 rate filings.
The proposed 15% median increase represents an early indication of pricing strategies and does not necessarily mean all consumers will face a uniform rate hike. Final approved rates could vary significantly by state, insurer, and plan tier. Regulators at both the state and federal levels will review the proposed increases before their implementation.
As insurers and policymakers navigate the evolving healthcare landscape, stakeholders continue to monitor how these changes might impact consumers, especially low- and middle-income individuals who rely on ACA marketplace coverage.
More detailed findings are expected to emerge as additional rate filings are submitted and reviewed in the coming year.
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