The political conflict is over. The government shutdown has ended. And the Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium subsidies will not be renewed (see Affordable Care Act Subsidies Have Expired. What That Means For Millions Of Americans).

With the turn of the new year, the enhanced premium tax credits (PTCs) enacted during the pandemic have expired. These tax credits allowed for an extended eligibility income range for people to receive health insurance subsidies—above the original 400% of the federal poverty level. Now, eligibility for subsidies will be limited to consumers with incomes up to, but not exceeding, 400% of the federal poverty level (see Enhanced Premium Tax Credit and 2026 Exchange Premiums).

Compounding the financial…