Open Enrollment Period (OEP) for health insurance

Open Enrollment, or OEP, is the annual opportunity to apply for, renew or change a Health Insurance Marketplace plan. You do not need a qualifying life event during this window, but you still must meet Marketplace requirements.

Dates for 2027 coverage

CMS announced November 1, 2026 through January 15, 2027 for HealthCare.gov enrollment. Selecting by December 15 allows January 1 coverage, subject to the required first payment. Selections from December 16 through January 15 are scheduled for February 1. Check your state Marketplace calendar if it does not use HealthCare.gov.

Prepare before selecting

Gather household details, projected coverage-year income, requested documents and information about other available insurance. Self-employed applicants should prepare a reasonable estimate of the net income relevant to the application. Do not artificially reduce income to obtain a cheaper quote.

Separate enrollment eligibility, financial assistance and plan selection. An employer coverage offer may affect subsidies even if you decline it.

Renewal deserves a review

Automatic renewal can help avoid a gap, but it does not replace comparing doctors, hospitals, medications, net premiums and care costs. Update household information and read eligibility notices before confirming.

Complete the process

1. Keep the exact plan identifier and enrollment confirmation.

2. Confirm the effective date and pay the first premium when required.

3. Provide outstanding documents by the notice deadline.

4. Confirm active coverage with the insurer.

Outside Open Enrollment

Certain life changes may create a Special Enrollment Period. A move, divorce or income change does not automatically qualify in every situation. The Marketplace reviews your circumstances. Medicaid and CHIP accept applications year-round for eligible applicants.

Aqui4You Insurance Agency can help organize your comparison and next steps. Start early if you need documents or account access assistance.

Sources and update

Updated November 2, 2026. See HealthCare.gov dates and Special Enrollment Periods. Current rules and your application determine eligibility and effective dates.