Kentucky Health Insurance Premium Increases Expected

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Advocates for health care access in Kentucky are warning customers to be prepared for “sticker shock” as health insurance premiums are projected to rise in the state’s Affordable Care Act marketplace.

As reported by Kentucky Health Voices, in 2025, over 100,000 individuals statewide will sign up for Kynect, Kentucky’s ACA platform. Priscilla Easterling, the director of outreach and enrollment, noted that Kynect enables many families to access affordable health insurance and offers enhanced premium tax credits to help with out-of-pocket expenses.

Those enrolled received notifications earlier this month indicating that their premiums would likely increase next year. Kynect is set to begin enrollment for 2026 coverage on November 1, with average plan prices rising by about $181 monthly for families in Kentucky.

“Many people will experience sticker shock,” Easterling mentioned.

The upcoming premium hikes occur amid a protracted deadlock in Congress between Republicans and Democrats over the federal budget, which has persisted since early October. A significant topic of discussion is whether to extend the enhanced insurance premium tax credit, originally slated to end this year.

Since 2021, families have increasingly depended on these enhanced subsidies. Easterling expressed concern that uncertainty regarding future health care access has led insurers to raise their premiums.

“As we know, costs for food, gas, and electricity have surged. That additional $181 can truly be a tipping point for many families,” she explained.

Typically, around 90% of Kentuckians using Kynect re-enroll in the same plan yearly. However, this time, Easterling advises families to thoroughly review their budgets and available options before selecting a specific insurance policy.

Under the Affordable Care Act, insurance plans have maximum out-of-pocket limits. Easterling suggested that for some families, it might make more sense to opt for a higher deductible that meets this limit instead of being blindsided by unexpected medical bills.

“This year is important for a careful assessment and analysis of the plans available, focusing on what offers the best protection for my family within our budget,” Easterling remarked.

She expressed concern for individuals who might be forced to go without insurance coverage.

Kynect saw a surge in registrations throughout 2025, which Easterling attributes to more individuals discovering affordable insurance options in the marketplace.

She hopes lawmakers will not only extend these subsidies but also make them permanent.

“The value is clear: more insured individuals means more people can access necessary medical care,” she added.

To secure health insurance coverage starting January 1, 2026, enrollment must be completed by December 15.