Will Marketplace Insurance Go Away in 2026? Understanding the Tax Credit Changes During Open Enrollment
Open Enrollment is in full swing, and one question keeps coming up again and again:
“Is the Marketplace going away?”
Let’s clear that up right away:
✨ The Marketplace is NOT going away.
You will still be able to shop for and enroll in Marketplace plans for 2025 and 2026.
But—there are major changes happening that may impact what you pay for health insurance next year. The biggest concern is around the extended ACA tax credits that were passed in 2021 during COVID.
Here’s everything you need to know.
What’s Actually Changing? The Extended ACA Tax Credits Are Set to Expire
During the pandemic, Congress expanded ACA subsidies so more Americans could qualify for help paying their health insurance premiums. These expanded subsidies:
- Lowered monthly premiums for millions
- Allowed higher-income households to qualify
- Prevented major premium spikes during COVID
But these enhanced tax credits were temporary.
They’re scheduled to expire on December 31, 2025.
That means your January 2026 premium may increase, depending on whether you qualified for the extended tax credits.
Some people will see a slight change.
Others could experience a significant increase.
Why You Don’t Have Until January
A lot of people assume they have until January to worry about this—but that’s not true.
To start coverage on January 1, 2026, your enrollment must be completed BEFORE:
📌 December 15, 2025
If you wait until later, your coverage won’t begin January 1, which could leave you exposed to penalties or gaps in coverage.
What Happens If the Tax Credits Get Extended Again?
Congress may still attempt to extend the enhanced subsidies—but nothing is guaranteed.
If they do pass an extension, here’s what you need to know:
- Your January premium will remain the same based on the current rules
- If rules change later, adjustments could take place for February 1
- Your broker may need to update your application manually
- Some updates may apply automatically — but not all
At JKAPP Consulting, a list is already being kept of clients who may be affected. If new legislation passes, applications will be updated quickly to ensure your premium reflects the changes.
What If the Tax Credits Don’t Get Extended?
Then the premiums shown for 2026 are the premiums you’ll keep.
But you’re not stuck. Depending on your health status and needs, there may be:
- Off-market plans
- Alternative PPO options
- Health-based plans that cost less
- Supplemental coverage to help balance costs
If you have certain health needs or ongoing conditions, sticking with the Marketplace may still be the best solution—but it’s important to review all options with a licensed broker who understands the current landscape.
Why Booking Early Matters
Open Enrollment is always the busiest time of year, but with these tax credit changes, appointment slots are filling up faster than usual.
If you haven’t booked your appointment yet, now is the time.
Schedule here:👉
jkappconsulting.com
A broker can:
- Compare plans across carriers
- Check doctor & prescription compatibility
- Identify network pitfalls
- Estimate your potential premium changes
- Review alternative options if needed
- Keep you informed if legislation changes
This service is free, and it can save you hundreds—and in some cases thousands—over the next year.
Final Thoughts
The Marketplace isn’t disappearing.
But the extended ACA tax credits are set to end, and that means your 2026 premium may change.
The key is enrolling before December 15, reviewing your options, and staying connected with your broker in case Congress makes last-minute updates.
