Open enrollment for 2027 Marketplace coverage starts November 1, 2026; on HealthCare.gov the last day for January 1 coverage is December 15, 2026. Find your state’s official marketplace and deadline so you don’t miss the window.
Check savings first. Use the HealthCare.gov screener to see if you may qualify for Medicaid, CHIP or a premium tax credit.
Compare total cost, not just the premium. Look at the deductible, out-of-pocket maximum and copays for the care you actually use.
Check your doctors and prescriptions are in the plan’s network and drug list.
Renewing? Return to the marketplace and compare — plans and prices change every year, and an automatic re-enrollment may not be your best option.
Use only official sites or licensed helpers. Free local assistance is available through HealthCare.gov and every state marketplace.
Questions & answers
When is open enrollment for 2027?
On HealthCare.gov, open enrollment runs November 1, 2026 to January 15, 2027. Enroll or change plans by December 15, 2026 for coverage starting January 1, 2027; enroll December 16 – January 15 for coverage starting February 1.
Do all states use HealthCare.gov?
No. For 2027, 22 states (including DC) run their own marketplace website and can set their own deadlines. Oregon moves from HealthCare.gov to its own Explore Health marketplace starting November 2026. Arkansas and Oklahoma run state-based exchanges on the federal platform, so residents apply through HealthCare.gov.
Can I enroll after open enrollment ends?
Only if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period after a life event such as losing other coverage, moving, getting married or having a baby. Medicaid and CHIP accept applications all year.
Why are there no premium numbers here?
CMS has not published a plan year 2026 or 2027 version of its benchmark-premium report on cms.gov (the latest is plan year 2025), and older averages would mislead. Use the official window-shopping tool on HealthCare.gov or your state marketplace to see real 2027 prices for your ZIP code.
Can the 2027 dates still change?
Federal rules on enrollment periods have been changing. HealthCare.gov currently lists November 1 – January 15 for 2027 coverage; check the official dates page before you rely on any deadline.
