Gov. Tony Evers and Insurance Commissioner Nathan Houdek on Monday released 2026 plan year rates for Wisconsin’s individual marketplace that project a substantial increase in Wisconsin health care coverage costs without the extension of the Affordable Care Act’s enhanced premium tax credits.
The Affordable Care Act tax credits aim to make health care coverage more affordable nationwide.
With increased rates approved by the Trump Administration for the 2026 plan year, and the decision of Congressional Republicans so far not to extend the enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits, many Wisconsinites could see their premiums double. Some seniors would see an increase of over $30,000 per year.
The announcement comes on Day 27 of the federal government shutdown as Congressional Republicans and Democrats have failed to reach an agreement to extend the tax credits that are set to expire at the end of the year.
Meanwhile, the 2026 Open Enrollment period is set to begin later this week on Nov. 1.
Wisconsinites’ health care coverage cost increases will vary based on age, income, plan selection and available insurers in each county, but seniors and middle-class families are expected to see some of the largest increases.
Additional information is available in the governor’s full announcement released Monday.
