As ACA Open Enrollment approaches its final days, lawmakers in Congress are still debating whether to renew the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits (ePTCs)—a key support system that makes ACA Marketplace health insurance more affordable. These credits currently help more than 23 million Americans, including over 400,000 Utah residents, access quality and affordable health coverage.
With the deadline fast approaching, uncertainty around the future of these tax credits is creating concern for families already shopping for 2026 health insurance plans.
What Are Enhanced Premium Tax Credits and Why They Matter
The Enhanced Premium Tax Credits, introduced in 2021, were designed to lower monthly health insurance premiums for people purchasing plans through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace. Since their implementation, millions of Americans have been able to secure coverage that supports preventive care, chronic condition management, and overall family health.
If Congress allows these credits to expire at the end of the year, the cost of health insurance could rise sharply for working families—especially in states like Utah.
Utah’s High ACA Enrollment Makes the Stakes Even Higher
Utah currently ranks fourth nationwide in ACA Marketplace enrollment, making the state particularly vulnerable to the expiration of ePTCs. Thousands of Utahns rely on these subsidies to maintain consistent access to medical care.
For example, individuals like Brick, who depends on costly monthly transfusions, have been able to stay healthy because affordable coverage is within reach. Without the tax credits, higher premiums could make essential treatments financially out of reach for families like his.
Rising Premiums Could Push Families Out of Coverage
The financial consequences of losing ePTCs could be severe. According to KFF, a leading health policy research organization, average Marketplace premiums would more than double if the enhanced credits expire. The analysis also warns that one in four ACA Marketplace enrollees may be forced to drop coverage altogether due to rising costs.
Such outcomes would not only impact personal health but also weaken the economic stability of Utah households and communities.
Open Enrollment Deadline Adds Urgency to Congressional Action
Time is running out. Open Enrollment for ACA plans beginning January 1, 2026, ends on December 15, and Utahns are already comparing plans and premiums. Many consumers are beginning to see the potential impact of higher costs as uncertainty around the tax credits continues.
With only weeks left before the enrollment window closes, families need clarity and affordability—not rising premiums and unanswered questions.
Why Congress Must Act Now
Extending the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits would protect affordable health insurance access for millions of Americans and ensure that hardworking Utahns are not priced out of the care they need. Immediate action by Congress would stabilize the ACA Marketplace, prevent sharp premium increases, and safeguard public health.
Affordable health care remains a cornerstone of a strong workforce and a healthy economy. Renewing ePTCs is a critical step toward preserving both.
