Open Enrollment for 2027 health coverage starts Nov. 1, 2026. If last year felt confusing, you’re not alone. Prices went up, some savings went away, and the rules keep changing.
We hear a lot of the same questions from members this time of year, so here are some straightforward answers.
1. When is Open Enrollment?
In most states, Open Enrollment runs from Nov. 1, 2026 to Jan. 15, 2027.
Sign up by Dec. 15, 2026 for coverage that starts Jan. 1, 2027.
Sign up by Jan. 15, 2027 for coverage that starts Feb. 1, 2027.
Some states have different deadlines, and a few end as early as December, so check your state’s dates. If you miss Open Enrollment, you usually can’t get coverage until next year unless you have a big life change, like moving, getting married, or losing other coverage.
2. Why are prices still going up?
Two reasons. First, health care keeps getting more expensive, and insurance companies are raising prices for the second year in a row, with a typical increase of about 15% for 2027. Second, the extra tax credits that made coverage cheaper from 2021 to 2025 have ended.
That’s a lot of change. But it doesn’t mean health insurance is out of reach.
3. Can I still get help paying for coverage?
Very likely, yes. Tax credits are still available, and they’re based on your income, household size, and where you live. In 2026, about 87% of people who enrolled in marketplace coverage nationwide got financial help.
The key is getting your income estimate right. If you’re self-employed, your income for health insurance is what you make after business expenses, not everything you bring in. Use our Income Worksheet to figure out your number, then check your savings with our subsidy calculator.
4. What’s new for 2027?
A few changes worth knowing about:
More plans work with a Health Savings Account (HSA). Bronze and catastrophic plans now qualify, so you can save money tax-free for medical costs.
Keeping your income up to date matters more than ever. If you get more help than you should during the year, there’s no longer a limit on how much you may have to pay back at tax time. Update your income any time it changes.
Some immigrants will no longer qualify for tax credits. Starting in 2027, certain lawfully present immigrants, including refugees, people granted asylum, and visa holders, can still buy marketplace coverage but won’t get tax credits.
5. Can I just let my plan renew automatically?
You can, but you might pay more than you need to. Prices and coverage change every year, and your doctors or prescriptions may not be covered the same way next year. A few minutes of comparing could save you a lot.
6. What if I can’t afford any plan I see?
Don’t give up yet. A few options to explore:
Bronze plans have the lowest monthly prices, but high deductibles, so make sure you could cover yours if you needed care.
Catastrophic plans have very low prices and protect you from major emergencies. They’re mostly for people under 30, but some people over 30 qualify.
Help from the company you work for: some gig companies offer stipends or reimbursements for health coverage.
Stride’s advisors can help you find options that fit your budget.
The Bottom Line
A lot has changed, but one thing hasn’t: having health coverage protects your health and your wallet. Don’t wait until the last minute. Sign up by Dec. 15 to be covered starting Jan. 1.
Ready to get started?
Enter your ZIP code below to compare plans, see what you could save, and enroll in minutes. Almost 40% of people who get their insurance through Stride pay less than $50/month.