ACA Enrollment Deadline December 15: Challenges Amid Rising Premiums

December 15 is the enrollment deadline for individuals seeking Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance coverage starting January 1, 2026. This deadline is a critical point for Americans purchasing coverage through the ACA marketplace to avoid gaps in insurance. Despite proposals to address rising premiums, legislative efforts have stalled, leaving many families uncertain about their health care costs for the coming year. Recent health care policy changes have led to significant premium increases, impacting working families' access to affordable coverage. Legislative gridlock has prevented the implementation of measures aimed at lowering premiums and improving market stability, contributing to ongoing challenges in the ACA marketplace.