Key Facts about ACA Changes Coming by the End of 2025

There were no new major rulings on ACA (Obamacare) on November 10, 2025.

However, significant legislative changes are set to take effect at the end of 2025, notably the expiration of enhanced ACA subsidies, which will make plans more expensive for many individuals. Recent news also includes congressional action to end a government shutdown without extending these subsidies, and administrative rules that are making some changes to marketplace standards. 

Key developments to be aware of:

• Expiration of enhanced subsidies: Enhanced premium tax credits that have made ACA plans more affordable are set to expire at the end of 2025. This will result in higher premium payments for many, particularly those who previously received the most assistance.

• No congressional action to extend subsidies: A recent Senate vote to end a government shutdown did not include a provision to extend these enhanced subsidies.

• New administrative rules: The administration has finalized new rules that are set to phase in over time, impacting ACA marketplace standards. Some of these changes are being challenged in court, but if implemented, they are expected to make it harder to afford coverage.

• Increased premiums: Insurers are proposing a median 18% increase for 2026 plan premiums, partly due to the expiration of the enhanced subsidies and rising healthcare costs.

• State-level mandates: While the federal penalty for not having insurance was eliminated, some states still have their own individual mandates and may impose a state-level penalty for being uninsured.

• Recent Supreme Court rulings: The last major Supreme Court challenge to the ACA was rejected in June 2021. This left the law intact but did not address whether a key provision was unconstitutional.