ACA HEALTH INSURANCE RATES RELEASED FOR 2027 OPEN ENROLLMENT

The following information was released by the North Carolina Department of Insurance:

Approved rates for the 2027 Affordable Care Act policies have been released.

For those in North Carolina who have individual ACA coverage, increases in premiums will range from 8.35% to 27.36%. Increases for small group policies will range from 18.78% to 19.54%.

Open enrollment for 2027 ACA policies runs from Nov. 1, 2026, to Jan. 15, 2027. Signing up by Dec. 15, 2026, ensures your coverage will begin on Jan. 1, 2027. Coverage for those signing up after Dec. 15, 2026, will begin on Feb. 1, 2027.

"While ACA increases are way less than last year's, the increased cost of claims, healthcare and prescription drugs continues pushing monthly premiums higher," Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey said. "It's important that people buying ACA health insurance go towww.healthcare.gov, research options and choose the plans that work best for them and their families."

Commissioner Causey urged consumers needing help navigating their options to contact a consumer specialist at the Department of Insurance at 855-408-1212 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

In addition to ACA plans, Commissioner Causey suggested North Carolinians consider other options:

Enroll in job-based coverage. This may be the most affordable option for many individuals and families. If you're employed and your employer offers health benefits, you may qualify to enroll in health insurance through your employer, even if you have declined this coverage in the past. You may also be able to enroll in coverage through your spouse's employer or, if you are younger than 26, through your parents' employer.

Enroll in a plan through a private insurer. You may purchase coverage through an agent or broker, or directly from a health insurance company. You may find plans that cost less than an ACA plan. Just be sure they provide the coverage you need.

Enroll in a student health plan. If you are younger than 30 and enrolled in school, you may be eligible for a student health plan. Contact your school to explore this option.

"Whatever you do, it is important for you to maintain health insurance coverage," Commissioner Causey said.