Now that some of those subsidies have expired and the cost of living has increased, many households are facing difficult financial choices: paying for everyday essentials like gas and food or funding their family's health insurance. For many households facing rising grocery, housing, and fuel costs, health insurance coverage may become harder to afford. Keep reading to find out why it's happening and what options may still be available if you’re struggling to afford coverage.
Under the 2025 healthcare policy changes backed by Republicans, several Affordable Care Act provisions were scaled back, according to a May 2026 analysis from KFF and other health policy experts. The changes included new work requirements for some Medicaid expansion recipients, while the enhanced ACA subsidies that lowered marketplace costs expired at the end of 2025. These changes are most likely to affect ACA marketplace enrollees, Medicaid recipients, and those near the subsidy income thresholds.
Eligibility restrictions for certain immigrant groups beginning Oct. 1, 2026, according to the National Immigration Law CenterMore frequent Medicaid eligibility checks beginning Dec. 31, 2026
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And while they say the losses from Medicaid expansion work requirements are harder to predict, since implementation timelines are still being determined, KFF predictions say that Medicaid enrollment is expected to drop by 7.5 million over the next few years.
What Happens if You Can’t Afford Health Insurance
There are different tiers of plans, and if you are relatively healthy, you may be able to sign up for an emergency plan that acts as "catastrophic" coverage in the event you are injured or get sick and need hospitalization. Additionally, short-term health plans can be available, according to Cigna, which can help you obtain temporary coverage while you are between health plans or between enrollment periods. Just note that these types of plans can have different coverage limits, so it's important to read the "exclusions and limitations" on the plan before signing up for one to make sure it will meet your needs.
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Healthcare experts generally recommend maintaining some form of coverage whenever possible, since unexpected medical emergencies can quickly become financially overwhelming.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
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