August 9, 2026 - 00:41

Health insurers selling individual plans through the Affordable Care Act marketplace in Arizona are asking for significant rate increases next year. The average requested premium bump across all companies is about 25 percent, according to state filings. Some carriers are seeking even larger jumps, with a few proposals exceeding 30 percent.
The requests cover plans for the 2027 coverage year. Insurers say the main drivers are rising medical costs, expensive specialty drugs, and higher use of hospital services. They also point to ongoing uncertainty around federal subsidies and reinsurance programs, which can shift costs back to insurers if not renewed.
Consumer advocates are pushing back, arguing that such steep increases would make coverage unaffordable for many families. They note that even with tax credits, higher premiums can push out-of-pocket costs up for those who do not qualify for full subsidies. The Arizona Department of Insurance will review the filings and can approve, modify, or reject the rates. A final decision is expected later this year.
If approved, the average increase would be one of the largest in the state since the ACA marketplace opened. For comparison, the average rate change for 2026 was around 7 percent. Insurers have until early fall to finalize their numbers, and consumers will be able to shop for 2027 plans starting in November.
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