Open Enrollment Starts Amid Rising Costs
Idaho has officially opened enrollment for Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance plans, offering an early look at how much premiums could rise nationwide in 2026. Many Idaho families are bracing for steep increases after the expiration of federal enhanced subsidies that have kept monthly costs lower since 2021.
State officials estimate that average premiums in Idaho could climb by 75%, with about 25,000 residents expected to drop coverage next year if the subsidies are not renewed.
Thousands of Idahoans Face Sharp Premium Increases
The financial impact will be significant for middle-income households who no longer qualify for premium tax credits. One retired Idaho couple, earning roughly $42,000 a year, saw their monthly premium rise from $51 to $2,232 in a renewal notice for 2026 coverage.
“We’re facing a stratospheric increase in health care,” the couple said, adding that they contacted Sen. Mike Crapo to urge continued support for the subsidy program.
According to Your Health Idaho, the state’s insurance marketplace, over 100,000 Idahoans benefited from enhanced subsidies this year—about 87% of all ACA enrollees in the state.
Political Debate and Federal Gridlock
The subsidy expiration has become a central issue in the ongoing federal budget standoff. Lawmakers remain divided over whether to extend the 2021 subsidy program, which lowered premiums for millions of Americans.
Democrats have insisted that any budget deal must preserve the tax credits, while Republicans argue for broader fiscal reforms. Without renewed funding, Idaho families will feel the effects as early as January 2026.
Market and Policy Outlook
Pat Kelly, executive director of Your Health Idaho, said the state has spent the past year preparing brokers and insurance agents for premium adjustments and customer communication. “We’ve been training agents on how to help consumers navigate the changes,” he said.
Those without subsidies will also see increases, with premiums rising roughly 18% on average for unsubsidized plans.
Gideon Lukens, a policy analyst with the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, said a 60-year-old Idaho couple earning $85,000 could see premiums rise by $1,500 per month, while a family of four earning $130,000 may pay $650 more monthly.
Idaho Families Adjusting to New Costs
Mark and Sarah Lathrop of Coeur d’Alene, who run a small business and do not qualify for subsidies, said their monthly premium will climb 21%, from $1,116 to $1,351. Their annual out-of-pocket maximum will also rise from $12,000 to $18,400.
They plan to keep their coverage due to ongoing medical needs but said higher costs will force them to continue cutting expenses. “It will be common among small business owners,” Mark Lathrop said.
What’s Next for Idaho’s ACA Marketplace
Open enrollment runs through January 15, 2026, with consumers encouraged to compare plans early to avoid coverage gaps. State officials say they will continue pressing for federal action while working with local health organizations to keep coverage options accessible.
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
About the Author
