Last week, I received a call from a friend asking if it was true that next year's insurance premiums would rise by over 20%, and whether they should just keep their current plan.

I was curious too, so I started looking for numbers. To cut to the chase, doing nothing and relying on auto-renewal is the riskiest choice.

First, let's look at the number 89%. According to healthinsurance.org, which cites CMS data, 89% of Georgia Access enrollees received premium subsidies in 2026.

In 2025, this percentage was 93%. The 4 percentage point drop is largely due to the enhanced subsidies ending at the end of 2025.

Those who received subsidies averaged $688 a month in support, and their actual burden was about $89 on average. At this level, it's still manageable.

The problem arises in 2027. The weighted average increase for the Georgia individual insurance market, before subsidies, is proposed at 20.7%.

There are significant differences among insurance companies. As of the end of August, the proposed increases were Alliant 29%, Oscar 28%, Anthem 21%, CareSource 21%, Kaiser 20%, and Ambetter 10%.

However, these are just proposed numbers. The state insurance commissioner's office has indicated that these figures could change based on summer negotiations, and final rates will be confirmed before November 1.

There are also major changes among insurers. UnitedHealthcare and Cigna will exit the Georgia marketplace starting in 2027, while a new company called Antidote will enter.

Many people misunderstand this situation. When premiums rise by 20%, they think their burden will also increase by 20%, but that's not necessarily true for those receiving subsidies.

Subsidies are calculated based on the benchmark silver plan price in the area. If the benchmark plan increases, the subsidies also increase, so the burden relative to income tends to remain stable.

However, there's a catch. If the plan you were using increases more than the benchmark plan, that difference becomes your responsibility.

For example, in the same market, Alliant proposed a 29% increase while Ambetter proposed only 10%. Even with the same subsidy, the actual burden can vary significantly depending on which plan you choose.

Those who do not receive subsidies, about 11%, are in a tighter situation. Starting in 2026, if household income exceeds 400% of the federal poverty level, there will be no premium tax credit available.

These individuals will bear the full brunt of the increases. You should also check if this threshold changes before enrolling in 2027.

So, here's my summary of what to do. First, as soon as the enrollment opens on November 1, log in and check the 2027 prices for your plan.

This year, Georgia skipped the window-shopping period. Since there's no opportunity to see prices in advance, it's best to check right on the opening day.

Second, update your income information to the latest figures. Subsidies are calculated based on expected income, so if the numbers are incorrect, you may have to pay back some money during tax reconciliation later.

Third, if you are a UnitedHealthcare or Cigna member, you must choose a new plan yourself. There's no guarantee that the plan you are automatically switched to will be suitable for you.

Fourth, when comparing plans, don't just look at the monthly premium. You should also consider the deductible, out-of-pocket maximum, and whether your doctors and medications are in-network.

Especially if you take medications regularly, be sure to check the formulary. The cost of medications can vary significantly, so consult with your doctor or pharmacist about possible alternatives.

Fifth, if you find it difficult to navigate on your own, seek help from a navigator or certified agent. This can save you time and money, especially if you find English paperwork overwhelming.

Also, remember the deadlines. Open enrollment runs from November 1, 2026, to January 15, 2027.

After that, you can only enroll if you experience a qualifying life event, such as childbirth or loss of other insurance. Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids applications are accepted year-round.

To briefly touch on policy discussions, both sides have valid points. There are arguments that expanding subsidies increases financial burdens, as well as concerns about the rising number of people losing insurance.

Consumer advocacy groups have pointed out that over 500,000 Georgia Access enrollees dropped between spring 2025 and spring 2026. This number was honestly quite surprising.

From the data, one thing is clear to me. Regardless of how the system changes, the burden will inevitably widen between those who compare plans each year and those who do nothing.

If I were you, I would invest just 30 minutes in the first week of November. Check prices, update income, and compare two or three similar plans side by side.

There's no need to be scared of the 20% figure, but it's true that doing nothing will lead to losses. Make sure to choose your plan directly this year.