ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The ongoing federal government shutdown is rippling across the country, leaving millions of Americans without paychecks, slowing air travel and disrupting key federal programs — including those tied to the Affordable Care Act.

North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey announced Oct. 29 that health insurance rates under the Affordable Care Act would increase sharply in 2026. For individuals with ACA coverage, average premiums will increase by nearly 28.6 percent, with specific rate hikes ranging from 16.88 percent to 36.4 percent. Small group plans will see increases between 12.66 percent and 17.5 percent.

Open enrollment for 2026 ACA policies runs Nov. 1, 2025, through Jan. 15, 2026. Those who enroll by Dec. 15, 2025, will have coverage starting Jan. 1, 2026; anyone enrolling afterward will begin coverage Feb. 1, 2026.

“I ask people purchasing ACA health insurance to go to healthcare.gov and find which plan works best for you,” Causey said in a statement. “Increased costs in health care, as well as the expiration of federal subsidies, result in premiums going up for many on the individual market. It’s more important than ever to begin researching your health insurance options early.”

Causey also encouraged residents to explore other health coverage options, including:

  • Employer-based plans: Workers or their family members may qualify for job-based coverage, even if they previously declined it.
  • Private plans: Consumers can buy policies directly from insurers or through brokers, though coverage levels vary.
  • Student health plans: Those under 30 and enrolled in college may qualify for school-based plans.

For assistance, consumers can contact the N.C. Department of Insurance at 855-408-1212 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays or use the Health Insurance Shopping Tool.

Approved ACA rate changes for 2026 can be viewed on the N.C. Department of Insurance website:

“Prices are simply too high. Elected officials have got to stay laser-focused on lowering costs for families,” Gov. Josh Stein said in a statement. “Washington needs to come back to work to take action to extend the ACA tax credits. Americans need health care!”