AHIP Continues to Raise Awareness of Cost Impacts if Congress Fails to Extend ACA Health Care Tax Credits

AHIP highlighted multiple media reports this week noting that millions of Americans are getting “their first look at the sharp increases many will pay” if Congress fails to extend the enhanced premium tax credits that have made comprehensive, high-quality health care coverage affordable for 22 million Americans.

The Associated Press reports that the expiring subsidies means premiums will more than double what subsidized enrollees currently pay, with annual premiums estimated to increase by 114%, according to a KFF analysis. CBO analysts estimate the higher prices could cause around two million people to become uninsured next year.

KFF also notes the change may strain hospitals, potentially leading to hospital closures or cost increases, since more uninsured people will seek emergency care they can’t afford. The New York Times reports that some consumers may also have fewer choices because their insurers dropped out of some markets for 2026.