The White House is reviewing whether to extend part of the enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits that are set to phase out soon. The discussion centers on keeping certain boosts in place to prevent higher monthly costs for many marketplace customers.
The talks involve senior officials in Washington, D.C., and began early Wednesday morning. They focus on how much of the 2021 subsidy expansion can be maintained without requiring a full, long-term renewal. The possible extension would apply to marketplace plans used by millions of Americans.
If enacted, the move could soften expected premium increases in 2026. Many households currently receive larger credits that reduce monthly payments, and losing them would raise out-of-pocket costs. The scale of the impact depends on which parts of the enhancements are extended and for how long.
Administration staff are preparing briefings for state marketplaces so they can plan for potential changes.
For now, health agencies say consumers should keep using their current coverage as normal. Any policy shift would be announced before enrollment deadlines so households can pick plans with clear information about their expected monthly premiums.