The Affordable Care Act (ACA) open enrollment period began on November 1, but due to the government shutdown, key subsidies remain uncertain.

**Key Takeaways** - The enhanced ACA premium tax credits, a central issue in the government shutdown, are currently in limbo as the 2026 enrollment period opens. - Consumers purchasing ACA marketplace plans may face significantly higher premiums, averaging an additional $1,000 per month. - While waiting for Congress to potentially extend subsidies is an option, enrollment must be completed by the deadline to avoid coverage gaps.

**Why Premiums Could Surge** Premiums for 2026 ACA plans are projected to rise sharply, primarily because current pricing assumes the expiration of enhanced tax credits. These credits, introduced under the American Rescue Plan Act, expanded subsidy eligibility and lowered uninsured rates to historic lows. However, they are set to expire by the end of 2025, triggering premium hikes.

The subsidy extension has become a political battleground in the shutdown, with Democrats refusing to support government funding without action on healthcare subsidies, while Republicans oppose negotiations during the shutdown. Gary Jacobs, Executive Director of Government Relations at VillageMD, noted, "No one knows if a bipartisan resolution will emerge."

**Impact on Consumers** ACA enrollees could face doubled out-of-pocket costs without enhanced subsidies, with middle-income seniors potentially paying $25,000 more annually. Insurers have also raised premiums, anticipating younger, healthier individuals may exit the market.

**Uncertainty in the Marketplace** Many consumers, especially older adults, may be shocked by higher premiums. Insurers have submitted dual pricing models to state regulators—one assuming subsidy extensions, the other their expiration—allowing quick adjustments if Congress acts.

**Should You Wait for Subsidies?** While waiting for a potential subsidy extension is tempting, missing the enrollment deadline risks losing coverage. Most states require enrollment by December 15 for January 1 coverage, or by January 15 for February 1生效.

Mona Shah of Community Catalyst advised, "Consumers should still explore plan options now to understand potential costs." Updating income and household details is critical, as underestimating earnings could require repaying excess subsidies.

**Low-Risk Early Enrollment** Enrolling early carries minimal risk, as plan changes are allowed during open enrollment. Retroactive subsidies are possible if Congress acts later, though Stacey B. Lee, a healthcare law professor, cautioned, "Past precedents don’t guarantee future outcomes."

**Tips for 2026 ACA Enrollment** 1. **Avoid auto-renewal**: 2025 plans may no longer be cost-competitive. 2. **Update information**: Regularly check for subsidy eligibility changes. 3. **Consider Silver Plans**: These qualify for cost-sharing reductions (CSR), offering additional savings if subsidies lapse. 4. **Compare plans**: Prioritize affordability over assumptions about subsidies. 5. **Review alternatives**: High-deductible or short-term plans may have limited coverage and should be last resorts.