Open Enrollment is the one time each year when anyone can sign up for, or switch, an individual health insurance plan. For 2027 coverage, it runs from November 1, 2026 to January 15, 2027 in most states.
This year it's especially worth taking an hour to shop. Many insurers are changing their Marketplace offerings, and premiums are rising in much of the country. Here's a step-by-step checklist so you don't miss anything.
Key 2027 Open Enrollment dates
| Date | What it means |
|---|---|
| November 1, 2026 | Open Enrollment begins in most states |
| December 15, 2026 | Deadline in most states to pick a plan that starts January 1 |
| January 15, 2027 | Open Enrollment ends in most states (coverage starts February 1) |
A few states that run their own marketplaces use different dates. For example, California, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Washington, D.C. extend enrollment to January 31, and Idaho ends on December 15. Check HealthCare.gov or your state's marketplace for your exact deadline.
The 10-step checklist
1. Don't just let your plan auto-renew
If you're already enrolled, the Marketplace may automatically renew you. That's convenient, but risky this year. Insurers are leaving the Marketplace in many states, and if your plan is discontinued, the system may assign you a replacement plan you didn't choose. Even if your plan continues, its premium, deductible or network may change.
Action: Read your renewal notice and compare it against other plans before December 15.
2. Update your income estimate
Your premium tax credit is based on your expected household income for 2027, not last year's. Update the Marketplace with your best estimate, including raises, job changes, self-employment income or a spouse's new job.
The extra, temporary subsidy boosts that applied in past years expired at the end of 2025. That means people with incomes above 400% of the federal poverty level may no longer qualify for help, and many others will see smaller credits than before. It makes an accurate estimate more important than ever.
3. List your doctors, hospitals and prescriptions
Before you compare plans, write down:
- Your primary care doctor and any specialists
- Your preferred hospital
- Every prescription you take, with the dose
Then use each plan's provider directory and drug list (formulary) to check that they're covered. A cheaper plan is no bargain if your doctor is out of network.
4. Estimate how much care you'll use next year
Think about expected doctor visits, ongoing prescriptions, planned surgeries or a baby on the way. If you expect a lot of care, a plan with a higher premium but lower deductible may cost less overall. If you rarely see a doctor, a lower-premium plan may make sense.
5. Compare total costs, not just premiums
For each plan, look at:
- Monthly premium (after any tax credit)
- Deductible: what you pay before the plan starts sharing costs
- Copays and coinsurance: your share after the deductible
- Out-of-pocket maximum: the most you'd pay for covered in-network care in a year
For 2027, the federal cap on out-of-pocket costs is $12,000 for an individual and $24,000 for a family, but many plans set lower limits. Our guide to deductibles vs. out-of-pocket maximums explains how these work together.
6. Understand the metal tiers
- Bronze: lowest premiums, highest costs when you use care
- Silver: moderate premiums and costs, and the only tier with extra cost-sharing reductions if your income qualifies
- Gold: higher premiums, lower costs when you use care
- Platinum: highest premiums, lowest costs (not offered everywhere)
If your income qualifies for cost-sharing reductions, a Silver plan can come with a much lower deductible than its sticker suggests.
7. Check the network type
HMO and EPO plans usually cost less but require you to stay in network (and HMOs often require referrals). PPO plans cost more but give you some out-of-network coverage. Choose based on how much flexibility you need.
8. Consider an HSA-eligible plan
For 2027, Marketplace Bronze plans are HSA-eligible, so you can pair them with a health savings account. You can contribute up to $4,500 for self-only coverage or $9,000 for family coverage in 2027. Contributions are tax-deductible and can lower the income used to calculate your premium tax credit.
9. Check whether anyone qualifies for Medicaid or CHIP
If your household income is low, some or all of your family may qualify for Medicaid or CHIP instead of a Marketplace plan. Children often qualify at higher income levels than adults. You can apply for these programs any time of year.
10. Enroll before December 15 if you want January 1 coverage
Picking a plan by December 15 (in most states) means your coverage starts January 1 with no gap. Then pay your first premium on time. Your coverage doesn't take effect until you do.
What if you miss Open Enrollment?
After the deadline, you can generally only enroll if you have a qualifying life event, such as losing other coverage, moving, getting married or having a baby. See our guide on what to do if you missed Open Enrollment for your options.
Want a second set of eyes?
Comparing a dozen plans with different networks, deductibles and drug lists takes time. Request a free health insurance quote, and a licensed professional can help you narrow down the best options for your budget, with no pressure.
Frequently asked questions
When is Open Enrollment for 2027 health insurance?
In most states, from November 1, 2026 through January 15, 2027. Some state-run marketplaces have different end dates, so check your state's marketplace.
What's the deadline for coverage starting January 1, 2027?
December 15, 2026 in most states. A few state-run marketplaces allow later sign-ups for a January 1 start.
Will my plan automatically renew?
Usually, yes. But if your insurer is leaving the Marketplace or your plan is discontinued, you may be moved to a different plan. It's best to review your options and choose a plan yourself.
Why did my subsidy go down?
The temporary, enhanced subsidies from past years expired at the end of 2025. Your subsidy also depends on your estimated income and on the cost of the benchmark Silver plan in your area. Updating your income estimate and comparing plans can help.
Can I change plans after Open Enrollment ends?
Generally only if you have a qualifying life event that triggers a Special Enrollment Period, such as losing coverage, moving, marriage or having a baby.
This article is general information, not legal or tax advice. Dates and figures are for 2027 coverage and can vary by state; confirm details with HealthCare.gov or your state marketplace.
