KFF Survey Finds Many ACA Enrollees Cutting Back on Basics as Premiums Rise

Washington, D.C. (KFMO) - A new KFF survey shows many Americans who buy health insurance through the Affordable Care Act marketplace are making difficult financial choices as coverage becomes more expensive. The survey comes about three months after enhanced ACA premium tax credits expired on January 1, 2026, a change KFF says has increased costs for many people who purchase their own insurance.

According to the survey, 55 percent of people with ACA health coverage say they are cutting spending on food, gas, and other basic household needs in order to keep their insurance. Some respondents also said they are using less medication than prescribed so it lasts longer. About 1 in 10 people who had ACA coverage last year report they have since dropped their insurance and are now uninsured.

The survey also found growing anxiety about medical costs. Around three-quarters of those who had ACA insurance last year now say they are either very or somewhat worried about being able to afford emergency care or hospitalization. KFF says the findings highlight the pressure many families are under as they try to balance rising health insurance costs with everyday living expenses.

KFF reported in earlier analysis that, without the enhanced tax credits, some marketplace enrollees could see premium payments more than double, depending on their age, income, and location.