Open Enrollment Begins Amid Steep Health Insurance Premium Increases

Open enrollment for 2026 health insurance plans under the Affordable Care Act has begun amid rising premiums and political uncertainty over the fate of enhanced federal subsidies. In Minnesota, premiums on the individual market are rising by an average of 22% compared to 2025, driven by increasing healthcare costs and the expected expiration of federal tax credits that currently help about 90,000 residents. Nationally, the average premium for benchmark plans on healthcare.gov could increase by 30% if these enhanced subsidies are not extended, as congressional Democrats push for their continuation while Republicans link the issue to the broader government funding dispute. This subsidy deadlock leaves millions facing steep insurance cost hikes, emphasizing the importance of consumers carefully comparing plans and seeking assistance from navigators during enrollment. The ongoing political stalemate means that the final cost of coverage remains uncertain, challenging Americans as they select plans for the coming year.