Mississippians face potential 2026 health premium hikes; state urges review of options
- Marketplace plan costs may rise in 2026 as federal “enhanced subsidies” are scheduled to expire at the end of 2025.
- The Mississippi Insurance Department urges consumers to actively shop for plans during the open enrollment period, which begins Nov. 1.
- Coverage options include the federal Marketplace, job-based plans, private insurance, and student health plans.
JACKSON, Miss. — Mississippi residents seeking health insurance for 2026 may face higher premium costs, particularly those enrolled in Health Insurance Marketplace plans, state officials said.
The Mississippi Insurance Department (MID) is encouraging consumers to begin researching all available health plan options now. Key federal tax credits, known as enhanced subsidies, that help make insurance under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) more affordable are set to expire at the end of 2025. This expiration could significantly increase monthly premiums for many enrollees.
“Now is the time to consider health insurance coverage for 2026,” the department stated, encouraging consumers “to consider all health plan options to find a plan that best fits individual needs.”
The open enrollment period for the Health Insurance Marketplace, available at HealthCare.gov, begins Nov. 1. Consumers currently enrolled in a Marketplace plan are urged to actively shop for coverage rather than relying on automatic renewal.
Reviewing Coverage Options
The MID outlined several pathways for coverage:
- Health Insurance Marketplace: Consumers can shop for plans on HealthCare.gov. While financial help is available on a sliding scale, the potential expiration of enhanced subsidies may impact affordability.
- Job-Based Coverage: If an employer offers health benefits, individuals may qualify to enroll, even if they previously declined. Employers often pay a portion of premiums. Consumers may also be eligible through a spouse’s plan or, if under age 26, a parent’s plan.
- Private Insurers: Plans can be purchased through licensed insurance agents, brokers, or directly from a health insurance company.
- Student Health Plans: Colleges and universities may offer student health plans to enrolled individuals.
Navigating Plan Changes
If a consumer’s current insurer leaves the Marketplace, they must carefully review their options. The MID warns that while individuals may be automatically enrolled in a different Marketplace plan, it may not meet their specific coverage or budget needs.
When choosing any plan, consumers should estimate their family’s health care needs for the coming year, including potential copays for visits, prescription medications, and procedures. This should be compared against each plan’s premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.
The department also warned consumers that some products, such as health care sharing ministries (HCSMs) and discount plans, are not traditional insurance and are not regulated by the same consumer protection laws.
Mississippi residents can compare ACA rates online at https://healthrates.mid.ms.gov/ or contact the MID Health Division at 601-359-3657 for help understanding their options.
