North Carolina ACA premium increase hits hard as health insurance rates jump nearly 30% ahead of open enrollment, leaving over a million residents bracing for higher costs.
The North Carolina Department of Insurance confirmed the rate increases Wednesday. About 1 million North Carolinians currently purchase ACA plans through the marketplace.
North Carolina ACA Premium Increase: How Much?
Individual plan rates will rise between 16.88% and 36.4%, while group policy rates are climbing 12.66% to 17.5%. These hikes come just days before open enrollment begins on November 1, leaving many residents scrambling to find affordable coverage options.
Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey says inflation, higher medical costs, and the possible expiration of federal subsidies are all playing a role.
“Increased costs in healthcare as well as the expiration of federal subsidies result in premiums going up for many on the individual market,” Causey said. “It’s more important than ever to begin researching your health insurance options early.”
The ongoing federal government shutdown may add more financial pain. Federal subsidies for ACA coverage — a key part of the Obamacare framework — are set to expire this year unless Congress acts. Democrats want the subsidies extended, while Republicans are pushing to end them entirely, deepening the political standoff.
If subsidies lapse, monthly premiums could rise even higher, potentially forcing thousands of families to go uninsured.
A Look Back: The Affordable Care Act Legacy
Passed in 2010 under President Barack Obama, the ACA remains one of the most polarizing health care laws in modern U.S. history. It made insurers cover pre-existing conditions, allowed states to expand Medicaid, and let children stay on their parents’ plans until age 26.
Critics, however, argue the law hasn’t delivered affordability as promised — with premiums now reaching record highs despite federal assistance.
What North Carolinians Need to Know
Open enrollment begins November 1, and residents are urged to review their coverage early to avoid surprises. Those currently on ACA plans should check if they qualify for renewed subsidies or new plan options through the federal marketplace at HealthCare.gov.
