Enacted by Congress in 2021, the enhanced Premium Tax Credits (PTCs) have played a critical role in making health insurance more affordable and accessible for millions of Americans, including working families, older adults, small-business owners, and those who are self-employed. The enhanced PTCs have dramatically improved the lives of people in the communities United Way serves by reducing monthly premium costs. Thanks to these provisions, millions of people have been able to obtain or maintain health coverage—many for the first time.
If these enhancements are allowed to expire, premiums could rise significantly for those who can least afford it, putting lives and livelihoods at risk. In an economy where many families are still recovering from pandemic-era disruptions and ongoing pressures due to inflation, now is not the time to roll back this essential support.
Extending the enhanced PTCs will not only protect current enrollees, but it will also continue to strengthen our health care system and reduce the number of uninsured Americans. It is a common-sense investment in public health and economic stability.