Update on ACA Tax Credits (And What it Means for You)
Over the weekend, the Senate voted to advance a deal that extends government funding through January 30th, in an effort to end the current shutdown. The House will now decide whether to take up the Senate measure to reopen the government.
Things are very much still up in the air at the moment, but here’s what we know so far about health insurance tax credits and what it means for your premiums.
The December Timeline
Senator John Thune has indicated there will be a Senate floor vote on ACA premium tax credits by mid-December, before Congress recesses on December 19th.
That timing is significant because open enrollment is already underway. Right now, the marketplace rates you’re seeing are based on the expiration of tax credits on December 31st. Whether Congress extends those credits will determine what people actually pay for coverage starting January 1st.
What’s on the Table
Representatives Sam Liccardo and Kevin Kiley have introduced a bill to extend the enhanced ACA tax credits for two years, covering households up to 600% of the federal poverty level.
Other proposals are also being discussed, including different approaches to how premium assistance is structured and delivered. Some involve extending the current system, while others propose more significant changes to how subsidies work. So far, Speaker Mike Johnson has not committed to bringing an ACA credit bill to a House vote, even if legislation passes the Senate.
The Current Situation
The timeline is tight. Congressional recess begins December 19th, which doesn’t leave much time for negotiation between now and then.
If enhanced tax credits expire as currently scheduled, many Americans will see their premiums increase at the start of the new year. How much depends on each household’s income level and insurance plan, but for many, the difference will be substantial.
Congress must act soon if they want changes to take effect for January coverage. Anything passed after December 31 would likely require special enrollment periods to allow people to adjust their coverage based on new subsidy levels.
The next few weeks will determine whether enhanced tax credits continue, expire, or get modified in some way. Each scenario has different implications for premiums and affordability.
How This Affects You
If you’re shopping for coverage right now, you’ll need to make decisions based on the current rates. Even if they change, the timing of any congressional action will determine how smoothly those changes can be implemented.
If you have questions about how potential changes might impact your specific situation, please reach out to us. We’re closely monitoring all of these new developments and can help you understand how they can affect you.
The situation is fluid, and we’ll continue tracking this situation through December––so be sure to check back with us for more updates.
