Texas Sets New Record in ACA Health Insurance Enrollments

Texas has recorded a remarkable increase in health insurance enrollments through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) this year. As of January 3, approximately 4.11 million Texans selected plans in the ACA marketplace, showcasing a 6.5% increase over the same period last year.

Record Enrollment in Texas ACA Marketplace

This year’s enrollment figures appear particularly noteworthy, considering the expiration of federal subsidies that previously helped lower premiums. In comparison, nearly 3.97 million Texans enrolled in ACA plans during the entire 2025 open enrollment period. At this time last year, 3.86 million had signed up.

Context of Enrollment Growth

Texas has become one of only six states to exceed its total enrollments from the previous year as of early January. Nationally, enrollment figures show a 3% decline, raising concerns among health policy experts about potential coverage drops. These fears largely stem from the discontinuation of enhanced subsidies, which were designed to facilitate increased participation in ACA plans.

Understanding the Enrollment Figures

• The current 4.11 million enrollment total reflects both new enrollees and those automatically re-enrolled.
• It’s unclear how many individuals completed their payments for coverage, as this data has not yet been reported.
• Future updates will provide insight into income levels and coverage choices among enrollees.

Experts caution that some consumers might not realize that their premium costs have risen, risking possible lapses in coverage. Additionally, some enrollees could be selecting less comprehensive plans to mitigate expenses.

Health Care Insights and Future Considerations

Charles Miller, a senior policy adviser with Texas 2036, views the uptick in plan selections as a hopeful indicator. He mentioned, “Affordable options are noticeable to many Texans,” while urging for comprehensive data to ascertain the state’s overall ACA participation.

Despite the challenges posed by expiring enhanced subsidies, Texas continues to maintain a strong ACA enrollment. Many Texans remain eligible for lower-cost options, particularly individuals earning at or below 150% of the federal poverty level.

Legislative Context and Economic Factors

This enrollment success is juxtaposed against the backdrop of legislative measures aimed at controlling premium costs. A bipartisan plan passed in 2021 has contributed to maintaining affordable rates for insurance options in the state.

Open enrollment for ACA coverage concludes on January 15, with expectations that the enrollment numbers may increase as the deadline approaches.