Open enrollment is the annual period when you can sign up for, change, or cancel health insurance plans. Missing it could mean going without coverage for an entire year.
When Is Open Enrollment?
Marketplace/ACA Plans: November 1 - January 15 (varies slightly by state)
Medicare: October 15 - December 7 (Annual Election Period)
Employer Plans: Varies by employer, typically in the fall
What You Can Do During Open Enrollment
- Enroll in a new health plan
- Switch to a different plan
- Add or remove dependents
- Change from individual to family coverage
- Cancel your existing plan
How to Choose the Right Plan
Step 1: Estimate your healthcare needs for the coming year — expected doctor visits, prescriptions, planned procedures.
Step 2: Compare total costs, not just premiums. Add up premiums + expected deductible + copays/coinsurance.
Step 3: Check if your doctors and medications are in-network and on the formulary.
Step 4: Consider an HSA-eligible HDHP if you're generally healthy and want tax advantages.
Special Enrollment Periods
Missed open enrollment? You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you experience a qualifying life event:
- Loss of other health coverage
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth or adoption of a child
- Moving to a new state
- Turning 26 and losing parent coverage
Don't Wait Until the Last Day
Plans can take time to compare, and technical issues happen. Start reviewing options at least 2-3 weeks before the deadline.
E
Ensureing Team
2026-03-05
