Florida ACA premiums rise again as open enrollment begins Sunday

Open enrollment for ACA health insurance plans in Florida begins Sunday, with premiums set to rise on average by 10.4% for 2027, according to the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, WRAL reported. This follows a 34% increase in 2026, contributing to growing concerns about healthcare affordability across the state.

Florida Voices for Health, a healthcare advocacy group, held a meeting Monday urging state and federal lawmakers to take action after the November 3 elections to address rising costs and improve coverage for Floridians. Scott Darius, the group's executive director, emphasized the need for reforms to help residents live healthier lives.

UnitedHealthcare of Florida Inc. is among the insurers with significant premium increases, with a 25% jump planned for 2027 after a 32% increase in 2026. Customers like Dave Waalewyn of Leesburg, who lost his Spirit Airlines health insurance, report monthly premiums as high as $800, making healthcare coverage financially challenging.

Darius explained that the premium increases are largely driven by the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits, which had previously helped reduce costs during the Biden administration. Advocates are calling for renewed efforts to extend or improve these credits to alleviate the financial burden on Florida residents.