What the 2026 Marketplace Rate Updates Mean for Families

Every year, health insurance carriers on the Marketplace release new plan filings — and 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most impactful years in recent memory. Many families are discovering that the subsidies they’ve relied on are changing, premiums are climbing, and their “good deal” from 2025 may look very different come January.

In this article, we’ll walk through what’s changing, how it affects real households, and what you can do now to keep your coverage affordable.

2026 Marketplace Rate Updates

1️⃣ Premiums Are Rising Nationwide

According to KFF’s 2026 rate analysis, insurers have filed for a median premium increase of about 18% across 312 Marketplace plans nationwide. Some states are even requesting hikes over 20%.

A key reason is the potential expiration of Enhanced Premium Tax Credits (ePTC), which have helped millions afford coverage since 2021. As Health System Tracker reports, losing those tax credits will directly raise out-of-pocket costs for middle-income households.

2️⃣ Subsidies Are Shrinking or Disappearing

During COVID relief, the government expanded subsidies to include many earning above 400% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). But that expansion is scheduled to sunset at the end of 2025 with the 2026 marketplace rate updates.

If Congress doesn’t extend the credits, KFF estimates that average annual premium payments could more than double for subsidized families in 2026.

For example, a single person earning ~250% of FPL (~$36,000) might see their monthly premium jump from ~$130 to ~$275 if the enhanced credit expires — an increase of over 100%. (Robert Wood Johnson Foundation data)

3️⃣ Eligibility & the “Subsidy Cliff”

If your household income edges above 400% of FPL (around $120,000 for a family of four), you may lose eligibility for Marketplace tax credits entirely. KFF’s policy brief shows that a 60-year-old couple earning $85,000 could see their monthly premium for a benchmark Silver plan spike from ~$500 to over $1,000 if credits expire.

Even families who remain eligible will likely see smaller subsidies and higher deductibles for 2026.

How It May Affect Your Family

Example A — The Thompson Family (Florida)

• Household: Mom (38), Dad (40), two children (6 & 8)

• 2025 Income: $72,000 (~325% FPL)

• Current Plan: Marketplace Silver, subsidy covers a large portion

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Projected Impact for 2026:

With carriers requesting ~18–20% higher rates, their monthly premium could rise from ~$1,050 to ~$1,240. If the enhanced credits expire, they’d lose ~$150 in subsidy support — raising their total to ~$1,390 per month.

✅ Their options:

• Compare Private PPO plans that offer stable networks and flat premiums.

• Update income estimates early to avoid repayment penalties.

Example B — Jason (Self-Employed, Michigan)

• Age 45 | Independent contractor | Income $85,000 (~430% FPL)

• Current Plan: Marketplace Gold (limited subsidy)

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If credits above 400% FPL end, Jason loses his subsidy entirely. With ~18% premium increases, his plan could jump from ~$650 to ~$800 monthly.

✅ His options:

• Review Private PPO individual plans (not income-based, broader networks).

• Add supplemental coverage to offset high deductibles.

What You Can Do Now

1. Compare Your Current Plan’s Premium & Subsidy

   • Review your 2025 premium vs 2026 projections (~15–20% higher).

2. Update Your Income Estimate for 2026

   • Slight income changes can affect credits — double-check before enrolling.

3. Explore Private PPO and Hybrid Plans

   • They aren’t tied to subsidies and often have larger networks.

4. Stay Proactive — Don’t Wait for Renewal Notices

   • Many families discover rate hikes too late. Early reviews save money.

5. Book a Quick Call to Review Your Options

   • Every household is different — income, ZIP code, network, and goals. Let’s review yours together.

2026 is a year of transition: higher premiums, tightened subsidy rules, and new plan options. The key is preparation — not panic. By reviewing your options early and working with a licensed independent advisor, you can avoid surprises and protect your family’s budget and coverage.

👉 If you’d like to see what your 2026 plan options look like, you can schedule a quick 10-minute coverage review below.Book a Call →

— Nick Kuhl, Licensed Independent Health AdvisorCoverage By Kuhl • Powered by Cornerstone Legacy Group