Impact of Rising ACA Premiums on Families

Jessica Chamberlain, an Illinois resident, has seen her health insurance premiums climb significantly under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) for 2026. Her monthly payment surged from $59.67 to nearly $100, prompting her decision to opt out of insurance coverage. Chamberlain, a single mother of two, expressed her financial strain, stating, "I can't afford that as a single mom with two kids."

A recent KFF survey revealed a decline in ACA plan enrollments by almost 1.4 million people. This decrease is associated with rising premium costs and the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits, which previously reduced premiums for approximately 22 million Americans. With these credits not renewed after 2025, many are grappling with higher healthcare costs.

The survey results, derived from over 1,100 participants, indicated that 69% re-enrolled in Marketplace coverage, some switching plans due to financial constraints. Notably, over half of the returnees reported increased healthcare costs, with 40% specifically citing higher premiums. About 80% noted elevated overall healthcare expenses, including deductibles, co-pays, and coinsurance.

Approximately 9% of Marketplace participants have discontinued their ACA coverage, primarily due to financial challenges. Among them is Holly Weir, a 26-year-old from Ohio, who faced a premium increase from $30 to $177 per month. As a result, Weir canceled her coverage while applying for Medicaid, pending eligibility confirmation.

The KFF survey also highlighted that even those maintaining ACA coverage are reevaluating their budgets, with 55% reducing spending on essentials like food to cover healthcare costs. This figure rises to 62% for enrollees with chronic conditions. Additionally, 22% of former ACA participants have sought alternative insurance through employers, Medicare, Medicaid, or other non-Marketplace plans.

Chamberlain's children qualify for Medicaid, but she does not due to her income level from her probation job. Expressing concern for individuals with pre-existing conditions, she stated, "It is affecting people, especially single moms. We're just trying to live."