Health Insurance Costs Rising for Minnesotans
According to MNsure, the average cost of health insurance plans has risen by 21.5% compared to last year.
MINNEAPOLIS — At Crosstown Insurance in Hopkins, Shawnee Christenson, an insurance agent, is finding it challenging to talk with clients now that the open enrollment period for MNsure has started.
“Yeah, some people cry,” she noted. “There’s definitely been an increase in calls, and folks are panicking.”
The public enrollment for the 2026 Health Insurance Plan kicked off on Saturday, November 1st.
MNsure reports that health insurance costs are set to rise by 21.5% this year.
“This inflation is just unsustainable,” Christenson commented.
This week, she spoke with clients facing these price hikes firsthand.
For instance, she shared a story about a 52-year-old woman whose premiums rose from $453 in 2025 to $680 in 2026. “So we’re talking about roughly $230 more each month for the same coverage,” Christenson explained.
Some clients are experiencing even steeper increases.
“Just last week, a couple in their early 60s reported their premiums skyrocketed by $1,000 a month,” she said.
Alongside increasing monthly premiums, MNsure indicated that many Minnesotans could lose federal tax credits if Congress doesn’t take action.
MNsure’s CEO, Libby Kaulm, expressed concern, stating, “I’m worried people are going to be somewhat in shock.”
These tax credits are part of a broader discussion in Washington, D.C., involving both parties as they work to resolve the federal government shutdown.
“Congress is still determining whether to extend those enhanced tax credits that have made healthcare more affordable over the past four years,” Kaulum remarked.
If these federal tax credits expire, many who depend on them could see their costs soar by over 100%.
For example, a family of four, with two young children and an annual income of about $100,000, would still qualify for federal aid. A bronze-level plan from MNsure would be priced between $400 and $700 monthly.
However, if that same family makes $150,000 a year, they might not access the federal tax credit, pushing the cost for the same plan to between $1,200 and $1,400 per month.
The general enrollment period for MNsure ends on January 15th, but those wanting health insurance starting January 1st must register by December 15th.
