Orlando, FL — With less than three weeks until the expiration of COVID-era tax credits, thousands of Orlando residents are bracing for significant changes to their health insurance costs and coverage. The enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies, which have helped make health insurance more affordable since 2021, are set to expire unless Congress acts. As local families and individuals prepare for higher premiums and potentially less comprehensive coverage, the impact on Central Florida is becoming alarmingly clear.
What Are the COVID-Era ACA Subsidies?
In response to the pandemic, Congress passed the American Rescue Plan Act in 2021, which included expanded tax credits for those purchasing health insurance through the ACA marketplace. These subsidies significantly lowered monthly premiums for millions of Americans—particularly benefiting low- and middle-income families in Orlando and throughout Florida, where health insurance costs have historically been a major concern.
For many, these subsidies meant the difference between having comprehensive health coverage and going uninsured. According to the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation, nearly 3 million Floridians enrolled in ACA plans for 2024, many of whom reside in the Greater Orlando area. Without the enhanced credits, experts warn that premiums could jump by hundreds of dollars per month for some households.
Local Orlando Residents Face Higher Premiums
Here in Orlando, the effects of the impending subsidy expiration are already being felt. Local insurance navigators and brokers report a surge in calls from anxious enrollees, worried about how they’ll afford coverage after the subsidies end. According to data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the average premium for a mid-level ACA plan in Florida could increase by as much as 53% for some enrollees once the credits expire.
“We’re seeing a lot of panic,” says Alicia Morales, a certified ACA navigator based in Orange County. “People who were paying $60 or $70 a month could suddenly see bills of $300 or more. For many Orlando families working hourly jobs or juggling multiple part-time positions, that’s just not sustainable.”
Orlando’s large population of service industry workers, many without access to employer-sponsored coverage, is especially vulnerable. The city’s vibrant tourism and hospitality sectors employ thousands who rely on the ACA marketplace for affordable health insurance.
Worse Coverage Is a Growing Concern
Rising costs aren’t the only worry for those affected. Health policy analysts warn that as premiums rise, some enrollees may be forced to downgrade to plans with higher deductibles, narrower networks, or fewer benefits. This could mean less access to doctors, more out-of-pocket expenses, and greater financial risk if someone gets sick or injured.
For Orlando residents managing chronic conditions, such as diabetes or asthma, the loss of affordable, comprehensive coverage could be devastating. “It’s not just about the monthly premium,” says Dr. Sarah Lin, a family physician in Winter Park. “If people switch to less expensive plans, they may find their medications or preferred providers are no longer covered, which can really disrupt care.”
Local health clinics and hospitals like Orlando Health and AdventHealth are also preparing for a possible uptick in uninsured patients seeking charity care or delaying treatment due to cost barriers.
What Happens Next? Possible Solutions and Resources
As the deadline approaches, advocates are urging enrollees to review their options on HealthCare.gov and seek help from certified navigators, many of whom are available through local organizations like the Primary Care Access Network (PCAN) in Orange County. Some may qualify for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), depending on their income.
Meanwhile, lawmakers in Washington are debating whether to extend the enhanced subsidies. If Congress fails to act, the standard ACA tax credits will remain, but they are less generous and could leave many Orlando families struggling to keep their coverage.
Local officials and advocacy groups, such as the Florida Health Justice Project, are also ramping up efforts to educate the community and push for legislative action. “We urge anyone concerned about losing their subsidy to reach out for help now,” says Maria Gomez, a health policy advocate in Orlando. “There may still be options, but the window is closing fast.”
How Orlando Residents Can Prepare
If you’re one of the many in Central Florida facing these changes, here are some steps you can take:
- Check your eligibility: Log in to your HealthCare.gov account and update your income and household information to see if you qualify for any remaining subsidies or Medicaid.
- Consult with a navigator: Free help is available through organizations like PCAN and the East Central Florida Health Council. Navigators can help you compare plans and understand your options.
- Review your budget: Factor in potential premium increases and higher out-of-pocket costs when making coverage decisions.
- Contact your representatives: Let your local, state, and federal elected officials know how the loss of subsidies would affect your family and community.
Conclusion: Share Your Story and Stay Informed
The expiration of enhanced ACA subsidies is poised to put a real strain on Orlando families, workers, and the local health system. As the deadline approaches, it’s more important than ever for residents to stay informed, explore their
