Grassroots Action Center
Immediate Action Needed
Contact members of Congress who represent your state in support of extending the enhanced premium tax credits under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that are set to expire Dec. 31, 2025.
The enhanced premium tax credits have made health insurance affordable for millions of Americans since their implementation in 2021. These credits significantly reduce monthly premiums for individuals and families purchasing coverage through the ACA’s Health Insurance Marketplaces, with the average urban enrollee saving $695 annually in premium costs and the average rural consumer saving $890 annually.
The Situation
The enhanced premium tax credits are scheduled to expire Dec. 31, 2025, creating a potential coverage cliff that would force millions of Americans to lose their health insurance or face higher premiums. ACA Marketplace enrollment has more than doubled since the enhanced credits were implemented, growing from 12 million in 2021 to 24.3 million in February 2025. Without extension, premium costs will increase, forcing many to drop coverage or choose plans with limited mental health benefits.
What’s at Stake
Mental health counselors have seen increased patient volume and improved treatment continuity since these enhanced credits were implemented, as patients can maintain consistent insurance coverage that includes comprehensive mental health benefits.
Key Impacts of Credit Expiration
Coverage Loss and Premium Spikes
- Premium increases: Without the enhanced credits, families could face premium increases of $1,000 or more annually, making coverage unaffordable for many households.
- Coverage cliff: An estimated 84.8 million people could lose health insurance if the enhanced credits expire.
- Plan downgrades: Families who maintain coverage may be forced to choose high-deductible plans with limited mental health coverage to manage costs.
Mental Health Access Barriers
- Treatment interruption: Clients may be forced to discontinue mental health treatment due to loss of coverage or inability to afford new plans with higher out-of-pocket costs.
- Provider network limitations: Cheaper plans often have more restrictive mental health provider networks, limiting patient choice and continuity of care.
- Medication access: Higher deductibles and co-pays could make mental health medications unaffordable for many clients managing chronic conditions.
Take Action Now
- Contact your members of Congress immediately.
- Request their support for extending the enhanced premium tax credits beyond Dec. 31, 2025.
- Share how the loss of affordable health insurance would affect your practice and the clients you serve.
