Open enrollment underway for Georgians who rely on Affordable Care Act plans

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Open enrollment is underway for nearly half million Georgians who rely on Affordable Care Act plans, but many still don’t know how much they’ll pay next year.

State Insurance Commissioner John King spoke to the Savannah Chamber of Commerce Monday about what’s driving the uncertainty. He said health insurance premiums are expected to rise next year, especially if federal subsidies that help hundreds of thousands of Georgians afford coverage expire at the end of 2025.

Federal subsidies create market uncertainty

The federal subsidies are tied to the ongoing government shutdown, creating uncertainty for small business owners and gig workers. King said despite the confusion, there are still ways to find affordable options. There is “no wrong door” to getting coverage, whether you go online, talk to an agent or contact the state directly.

Regardless of Washington’s decision about funding, he said, the Georgia health insurance landscape would remain strong.

“I think talking about this, about Georgia Access being a way for Georgia to continue innovating, we will modify this plan and this marketplace based on the needs of the state of Georgia,” King said. “Whatever Georgia wants to focus on, we will shift the priorities.”

King said the state chose Savannah to launch its open-enrollment campaign because the coastal region has one of Georgia’s most complex insurance markets.

Open enrollment runs through mid-December.