WASHINGTON —

Health insurance under the Affordable Care Act marketplaces opened Saturday, with costs expected to significantly rise for many.

The ACA has been at the core of the government shutdown, which is entering its second month, with expanded tax credits set to expire at the end of the year.

In budget negotiations, Democrats were aiming to extend the expanded subsidies, set to expire at the end of 2025, while Republicans have emphasized reopening the government before beginning health care talks.

Insurers are charging an average of 26% more in 2026, according to an analysis from KFF. HealthCare.gov opened its 2026 pricing last Tuesday for enrollees ahead of open enrollment.

If tax credits expire, the average premium would more than double at an estimated 114% increase,

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