ACA Open Enrollment for 2027: Dates and What's Changing
Open enrollment for 2027 Marketplace plans runs November 1 to December 15, 2026 on HealthCare.gov, with no January extension. Here's what to know.
Updated October 3, 2026 · 6 min read
Key takeaways
- On HealthCare.gov, open enrollment runs November 1 to December 15, 2026, for coverage starting January 1, 2027.
- The January 15 extension is gone in HealthCare.gov states. State-run exchanges must end by December 31.
- The maximum out-of-pocket limit rises to $12,000 for an individual in 2027.
- Prices are changing, so don't let your plan auto-renew without comparing.
Key dates
- HealthCare.gov states: November 1 to December 15, 2026. All plans picked during open enrollment start January 1, 2027.
- State-run exchanges: must open by November 1 and end no later than December 31, with a window of no more than nine weeks. Check your state's exchange for its exact deadline.
In past years, many people could enroll until January 15 for February coverage. That extension no longer applies in HealthCare.gov states.
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What's changing for 2027
- Higher premiums in many areas. Insurers proposed a median increase of about 15% nationally, according to healthinsurance.org's review of rate filings, with wide differences by state.
- Subsidies adjust with prices. Premium tax credits are tied to the benchmark silver plan in your area, so when benchmark premiums rise, subsidies generally rise too.
- Higher out-of-pocket maximum. The most an individual can be required to pay for covered in-network care rises to $12,000 in 2027.
- State changes. Some states are launching new exchanges or adding state-funded help. Oregon is moving to its own platform, Explore Health.
What to do before December 15
- Update your income estimate. Your subsidy is based on projected 2027 household income. An outdated estimate can mean paying too much each month or owing money at tax time.
- Compare plans instead of auto-renewing. Your current plan's price, network or drug list may change.
- Check your doctors and prescriptions in each plan's network and formulary.
- Look at total cost, not just the premium. Add the deductible and out-of-pocket maximum to see your worst-case year.
- Look at silver plans if your income qualifies for cost-sharing reductions, which lower deductibles and copays.
Missed the deadline?
You can still enroll outside open enrollment if you have a qualifying life event, such as losing other coverage, moving, getting married or having a baby. You generally have 60 days from the event. See our guide to health insurance after a job loss.
Frequently asked questions
When does 2027 open enrollment start?
November 1, 2026, in most states.
Can I enroll in January 2027?
Not in HealthCare.gov states unless you qualify for a special enrollment period. Some state-run exchanges may run until December 31.
Will my plan renew automatically?
Usually, if it's still offered, but your premium and subsidy may change. Compare before the deadline.
Sources
How this guide was made: researched and drafted with AI assistance (Wren AI), and checked against the government and industry sources listed above. Wren AI is an AI tool, not a person or a licensed insurance agent.
This guide is general information, not insurance, legal or tax advice. Coverage, rules and prices vary by state, insurer and policy. Confirm details with a licensed agent before you buy. Read our editorial policy.