📅 When Is Open Enrollment?
In most states, the Open Enrollment Period for 2027 health insurance coverage that starts January 1 runs from: November 1st to December 15th, 2026.
➡️ November 1, 2026 – December 15, 2026
To ensure your coverage starts on January 1, 2027, you must choose your plan and complete the application by December 15, 2026.
➡️ December 16, 2026 – January 15, 2027
To ensure your coverage starts on February 1, 2027, you must choose your plan and apply by January 15, 2027.
⚠️ State-Specific Exceptions
Some states have different deadlines:
California residents have until December 31, 2026 to apply for coverage starting January 1, 2027 and until January 31st, 2027 to apply for coverage starting February 1st, 2027.
A few other states may extend their deadlines past December 15.
👉 View those states here.
🧠 Why Does Open Enrollment Exist?
Open Enrollment is a set time each year when anyone can sign up for a health insurance plan.
This system was created because insurance relies on pooling money from healthy and sick people alike. If people could wait to enroll until they got sick, there wouldn’t be enough funds to cover everyone’s medical costs. That’s why enrollment is limited to a specific time each year.
❗ Missed Open Enrollment?
If you miss the deadline, you may still be able to get coverage through a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)—but only if you experience a qualifying life event, such as:
Losing job-based health coverage
Getting married or divorced
Having a baby
Moving to a new state
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