2027 ACA Rate Increases by State: Double Digits Again, and What Agents Should Do
Your ACA clients are about to open renewal notices with big numbers on them. Here's what's been approved so far and how to work it.
The numbers
Illinois: Per the Illinois Department of Insurance, the average 2027 individual rate increase is 14.1%, down from 28.8% last year.
New Jersey: Per the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance, the weighted average individual increase is 19.8%.
Georgia: As reported by the AJC, approved 2027 increases run between 11% and 29%.
Ohio: Per ACA Signups, the individual market is up 16.3%.
HealthCare.gov open enrollment runs Nov 1 to Jan 15.
What it means: nobody auto-renews
Averages hide a lot. A client's actual change depends on their plan, carrier, area and subsidy. That's why the most valuable thing you do this season is the re-shop.
Re-shop every renewal. The plan that was the best fit last year may not be this year.
Update income. Subsidies depend on it, and stale income is how clients get surprised.
Show the net number. Clients react to the sticker price. Show them what they'll actually pay.
Contact clients before they see the notice. Get ahead of the panic call.
Start early. Nov 1 to Jan 15 goes fast.
If you're an agent new to the marketplace, also read up on the ACA agent registration freeze before you plan your season. And Justin's earlier piece on ACA marketplace exits covers carriers pulling out.
Get the free Marketing Manual
Rate shock is a reason to reach out, not hide. Brock puts out tons of resources like these, and the Marketing Manual helps you build the outreach that gets clients on the phone before renewal hits. Download the free Marketing Manual.
FAQ
How much are ACA rates going up in 2027?
It varies by state. Illinois averages 14.1%, New Jersey 19.8% (weighted average), Georgia 11% to 29%, and Ohio 16.3% in the individual market.
When is 2027 ACA open enrollment?
HealthCare.gov open enrollment runs Nov 1 to Jan 15.
Should clients auto-renew their ACA plan?
No. Re-shop every renewal and update income so subsidies are right.
