What the End of COVID-Era Subsidies Could Mean—And Why You Should Also Price Private Options
If you buy coverage on the Health Insurance Marketplace®, this fall’s Open Enrollment (Nov 1, 2025–Jan 15, 2026) matters more than usual. The enhanced premium tax credits (the “COVID-era” boost) are scheduled to end after the 2025 plan year unless Congress acts. If they lapse, many households will see higher monthly premiums in 2026 and tougher trade-offs on deductibles and out-of-pocket costs.
Below is what to expect—and why it’s smart to compare ACA Marketplace plans side-by-side with medically underwritten private plans so you don’t leave savings on the table.
The short version
Expect higher net premiums in 2026 if enhanced subsidies expire.
Deductibles and copays may hit harder if you switch to lower-premium metal tiers.
Shopping early helps you find value—including potential savings in the private market for eligible, generally healthier applicants.
What changes if the enhanced subsidies expire?
Monthly premiums: Without the temporary boost, the share of income required for benchmark plans rises. Net premiums go up for many enrollees.
Plan design pressure: When premiums rise, people often “buy down” (e.g., silver → bronze), which typically means higher deductibles and more cost-sharing.
Choice complexity: Expect tighter comparisons across network quality, Rx coverage, and out-of-pocket maximums—not just sticker price.
Add this to your playbook: Compare ACA and private plans
Most people know they should review Marketplace options. Fewer people realize that private, medically underwritten plans (not ACA-compliant, and not for everyone) can be significantly less expensive for certain health profiles—especially individuals and families with few conditions and consistent preventive care.
Where private plans can shine
Lower monthly cost for healthy applicants. Medical underwriting lets carriers price risk, which can produce less expensive health insurance vs. unsubsidized ACA premiums for many.
PPO access and multi-state flexibility (varies by carrier). Some private plans offer broader PPO insurance plans and out-of-network options that fit frequent travelers or families using specialists.
Customization. You can pair a leaner private plan with affordable supplemental insurance (accident insurance, hospital indemnity, critical illness) and affordable dental plans to cap big bills.
Simplified experience. Some private carriers offer streamlined claims, faster approvals, and concierge-style support.
Where ACA Marketplace plans may be better
Guaranteed issue & essential benefits. No medical underwriting, pre-existing conditions covered, and comprehensive essential health benefits.
Income-based savings. If subsidies continue for you—or if Congress extends relief—you may still get affordable healthcare through the Marketplace.
Cost-sharing reductions. Eligible silver plans can dramatically lower deductibles and out-of-pocket costs.
Important realities about private plans
We’ll be transparent so you can decide confidently:
Medical underwriting applies. You can be declined or rated up; pre-existing conditions may be excluded or limited.
Not ACA-compliant. These plans don’t satisfy all ACA rules; benefits and caps vary by carrier.
Read the fine print. We’ll review policy language, networks, Rx formularies, and any waiting periods together—no surprises.
Florida & the Southeast: planning tips
With rapid population growth and high Marketplace enrollment in states like Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina, it pays to compare health insurance options early. Our advisors routinely quote both Marketplace and private plans for:
Families (searching for affordable health insurance for family, family dental plans, and health insurance in Florida for family)
Individuals (seeking affordable individual health insurance plans, dental health insurance plans, and supplemental insurance options)
Small businesses (pricing group vs. individual + supplemental strategies)
How to shop smart in 5 steps
Pre-shop now. List doctors, hospitals, and prescriptions you must keep.
Compare both paths. We’ll show ACA health coverage quotes and private health plan quotes side-by-side—premiums, deductibles, Rx, networks.
Run the math on risk. Pair plans with supplemental policies (accident, hospital, critical illness) to reduce worst-case costs.
Check dental and vision. Bundle dental and health insurance plans (including UnitedHealthcare Dental, Allstate Health Solutions Dental, and others) to keep care affordable.
Decide with data. We’ll model your total annual spend (premium + expected out-of-pocket) so you can choose the best health insurance plan for your real life.
What to bring for a custom quote
Have these handy: household ages, ZIP code, estimated 2026 income, preferred doctors/hospitals, prescriptions, and any must-have benefits. With that, we can compare health insurance Marketplace options, affordable private insurance plans, family dental coverage, and accident insurance coverage—and give you clear quotes on insurance from multiple carriers.
Our promise
We’re here to make health insurance made simple. Whether you choose an ACA plan or a private option, you’ll see transparent side-by-side comparisons, plain-English explanations, and ongoing support. If subsidies change, we’ll update your options and help you pivot quickly.
Open Enrollment starts November 1. Let’s map your 2026 coverage now—and include a private-plan comparison so you can lock in the right balance of affordable health plans, coverage, and peace of mind.
affordable health coverage • affordable healthcare insurance • cheap and affordable health insurance • health insurance quote • family health coverage plans • individual insurance plans Florida • dental and health insurance plans • supplemental insurance • PPO insurance plans • affordable health insurance Florida • affordable family dental insurance • best affordable health insurance plans • health plan options • insurance coverage for family • supplemental dental insurance plans • affordable health plans in Florida • health insurance options for individuals • get a quote for health insurance
