ACA marketplace premiums ↑ **26%** avg. next year, per KFF; employer healthcare costs ↑ **6.5%** (Mercer).
High-deductible plans offer lower premiums but require higher upfront costs; HSAs now available for more ACA plans.
Experts: Consider health status, cash savings, and tax bracket before switching to a high-deductible plan.
Enhanced ACA premium tax credits may expire end of 2025, affecting **1–2M** enrollees above 400% poverty level.
Without extension, some will pay full price; those under 400% poverty level keep tax credits.