The Enhanced ACA Subsidies Expire in 19 Days: Here's What You Need to Know

On December 31, the Affordable Care Act enhanced subsidies will expire. These subsidies are a cornerstone of the open marketplace; they’re what helps keep these plans purchased actually affordable and accessible.

Without the subsidies, healthcare premiums are set to skyrocket, the price (on average) doubling for 22 million Americans across the country — many of them freelancers. 

How did we get here?

When Republicans took back all three chambers of government in November 2024, we knew that the future of the enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies was at risk. We were right to be concerned, as when President The President signed into law the “One Big, Beautiful Bill”, it did not extend the enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies — amongst many other provisions that endanger the American people.

Senate Democrats then attempted to save the subsidies before they expire on December 31 by refusing to sign onto a government funding bill that did not provide for their extension. This brought us the longest government shutdown in history — but eventually, eight senators (seven Democrats and one Independent) voted with Republicans to re-open the government. They agreed to this vote based on a promise from Republican Senate leadership that there would be a separate Senate floor vote on the subsidies in December. Republican House leadership made no such similar promise. And while there are various discharge petitions that would prompt a vote being circulated in the House, none have yet to receive the required 218 votes.

What happened in the floor vote?

In the Senate floor vote, two different bills were put forth; one by the Democrats in hopes of extending the subsidies for three years, and one from Republicans that lets the subsidies expire and instead funnels that funding into $1,500 per year payments into health savings accounts for those earning 700% below the poverty level. However, this money could not be used to help pay for premiums. The bill also contains restrictions around abortion and gender-affirming care. 

Neither bill received the 60 votes needed to advance.

What now?

Many are predicting that as the subsidies are set to expire December 31 and Congress is set to recess for the holidays next week until January 5, that millions of Americans will be forced to pay these exorbitant premiums for their healthcare.

This is unacceptable — and we must tell our elected officials as such. We encourage you to contact yours and let them know your vote in the 2026 midterm elections hinges on how they move forward on healthcare. Many are aware that this could cost them re-election. 

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