The 2026 ACA Open Enrollment Period runs from November 1, 2026 through January 15, 2027 in most states. This is the only window each year when you can enroll in a marketplace plan without a qualifying life event — so don't miss it.
Key 2026 Open Enrollment Dates
- November 1, 2026: Open Enrollment begins. Plans for 2027 coverage become available.
- December 15, 2026: Deadline to enroll for January 1, 2027 coverage.
- January 1, 2027: 2027 coverage begins for those who enrolled by Dec 15.
- January 15, 2027: Open Enrollment ends. Last day to enroll. Coverage starts February 1.
State Exceptions
Some states run their own marketplaces with extended deadlines. As of 2026:
- California (Covered California): Through January 31, 2027
- New York: Through January 31, 2027
- New Jersey: Through January 31, 2027
- DC, Massachusetts, Rhode Island: Through January 23, 2027
Always check your state marketplace for exact deadlines.
What's New for 2026
- Enhanced subsidies continue: The expanded ACA subsidies remain in effect — no income cliff at 400% FPL.
- Average premiums up ~6%: Higher base rates, but bigger subsidies offset much of the increase.
- More $0 plans: Roughly 80% of marketplace shoppers can find a $0 premium plan after subsidies.
- Auto-renewal: If you don't actively pick a plan, you'll be auto-enrolled in your current one — but premiums may have changed.
What If You Miss Open Enrollment?
If you miss the January 15 deadline, you can only enroll if you have a qualifying life event:
- Lost employer-sponsored coverage
- Got married or divorced
- Had a baby or adopted a child
- Moved to a new state
- Lost Medicaid eligibility
- Significant income change
- Aged off a parent's plan (turned 26)
You have 60 days from the qualifying event to enroll. Otherwise, you must wait until the next Open Enrollment.
How to Enroll: 4 Simple Steps
- Gather info: Income estimate, household size, current plan info, doctor preferences.
- Compare plans: Use HealthCare.gov, your state marketplace, or a free licensed agent.
- Check subsidies: Make sure you're getting the right premium tax credit for your income.
- Enroll & pay first premium: Coverage starts the 1st of the following month.
Common Open Enrollment Mistakes to Avoid
- Auto-renewing without checking: Premiums and benefits change each year. Always actively review your renewal.
- Choosing on premium alone: A "cheap" Bronze plan can cost more than Silver if you use healthcare.
- Not updating income: Subsidies are based on projected income. Update if anything's changed.
- Missing the December 15 deadline: If you want coverage starting January 1, this is the real deadline.
Don't navigate Open Enrollment alone. Our licensed agents handle everything for free — comparison shopping, subsidy calculation, and enrollment. Get help in 60 seconds →