ACA Rates 2026: Compare Marketplace vs Private PPO Plans
- Jason Price
- Oct 29
- 2 min read
ACA Rates 2026: What the New Numbers Really Mean for You
The 2026 ACA (Marketplace) health insurance rates are officially out, and the numbers are raising eyebrows across the country.
For many Americans — especially those who are self-employed or earning just above the subsidy cutoff — the difference between qualifying and not qualifying can now mean thousands of dollars more per year in premiums.
The Rising Impact of ACA Rates 2026
Even a small increase in income could now cause a massive spike in monthly premiums — sometimes over $1,000 more per month for the same coverage.
Here’s what we’re seeing for 2026:
Subsidized ACA plans remain affordable for lower-income households.
No-subsidy ACA plans continue to rise sharply, often exceeding the cost of private coverage.
Private PPO plans through the UnitedHealthcare Choice Plus network are often 40–60% more affordable than comparable ACA options.
How ACA Rates 2026 Affect the Self-Employed
If you’re self-employed or own a small business, you likely fall into the income range where subsidies phase out — leaving you with high ACA premiums and limited flexibility.
Private PPO plans are often a better fit for these clients because they:
Offer first-dollar coverage with no deductibles or copays
Include nationwide access through UnitedHealthcare’s Choice Plus network
Are tax-deductible for 1099 or self-employed individuals
These plans give you access to the care you want — without the financial penalty of earning “too much.”
ACA Rates 2026: Subsidy Cutoff Levels
If your income exceeds these amounts, you no longer qualify for ACA subsidies under current federal guidelines:
1 person: $62,600
2 people: $84,600
3 people: $106,600
4 people: $128,600
5 people: $150,600
6 people: $172,600
7 people: $194,600
8 people: $216,600
The Bottom Line
The 2026 ACA rate changes make it more important than ever to compare private PPO options before locking in your Marketplace plan.
If your income is near or above the cutoff, there’s a strong chance you can find a plan with better coverage and lower costs through private channels.
Need Help Comparing Your Options?
At Health Based Healthcare, we specialize in private PPO health plans that provide:
No deductibles or copays
Nationwide coverage through UnitedHealthcare’s Choice Plus network
Tax-deductible options for self-employed individuals
📞 Call or text 954-547-8342
🌐 Visit HealthBasedHealthcare.com
Open Enrollment is here — take a few minutes to explore your 2026 options before rates rise again.
