US Affordable Care Act subsidies lapse reduces coverage for 3 million people

The United States health‑insurance marketplace saw a decline of about three million enrollees after federal subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) expired. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the number of people covered fell from 22.1 million in 2025 to 19.2 million in February 2026, a 13 % drop. The reduction is attributed to the termination of federal premium assistance, leaving many previously subsidized households unable to afford insurance.

The loss of coverage affects individuals and families who relied on the ACA’s financial aid to obtain health plans, raising concerns about increased uninsured rates and potential strain on health‑care providers and public health programs.