ACA Open Enrollment 2027: Key Dates, Deadlines and What Changed
ACA open enrollment 2027 is underway. If you buy your own health insurance through HealthCare.gov or a state marketplace, this is your main chance to sign up, switch plans or update your income. However, prices and subsidies have changed a lot in the past year, so it pays to shop carefully.
ACA open enrollment 2027 dates
In most states, open enrollment runs from November 1, 2026, to January 15, 2027, according to healthinsurance.org.
The deadline that matters most, though, comes sooner:
- December 15, 2026: enroll by this date in HealthCare.gov states for coverage that starts January 1.
- January 15, 2027: last day to enroll in most states, with coverage starting February 1.
Some state-run marketplaces set their own dates. For example, California, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Washington, D.C., run through January 31. Idaho, on the other hand, ends on December 15. Check your state’s exchange to be sure.
What changed: the enhanced subsidies are gone
The biggest change happened a year ago. The enhanced premium tax credits that lowered costs for millions of people expired at the end of 2025, according to KFF.
KFF found the effects in 2026 were sharp:
| Measure | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Average net monthly premium | $113 | $178 |
| Average deductible | $2,759 | $3,786 |
| Share of sign-ups choosing bronze plans | 30% | 40% |
The "subsidy cliff" is also back. People earning more than 400% of the federal poverty level no longer qualify for any premium tax credit. Sign-ups among people earning 400% to 500% of the poverty level fell 44%, KFF reported.
What the government says about 2027 plans
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released its 2027 plan fact sheet on October 30. According to CMS:
- More than 75% of HealthCare.gov shoppers will be able to find a plan for $50 a month or less after tax credits.
- Shoppers will have about 100 plans to choose from on average, from five or six insurers.
- About 35 plans on average will be HSA-eligible.
Keep in mind that a low premium often comes with a higher deductible. So the cheapest plan is not always the cheapest choice over a full year.
How to shop smart during ACA open enrollment 2027
- Do not auto-renew blindly. Your current plan’s price or network may have changed. Compare at least three options.
- Update your income. Your tax credit is based on your expected 2027 income. An accurate estimate helps you avoid owing money at tax time.
- Look at total costs. Add the yearly premium to the deductible and out-of-pocket maximum.
- Check your doctors and prescriptions. Make sure the plan’s network and drug list cover what you need.
- Consider an HSA-eligible plan. If you are healthy and can save, a health savings account offers tax advantages.
- Get free help. Licensed navigators can walk you through options at no cost.
Self-employed? Health insurance is a big part of running a business. Our guide on how to build business credit covers other money moves for owners.
The bottom line
ACA open enrollment 2027 runs through January 15 in most states, but sign up by December 15 for coverage on January 1. With the enhanced subsidies gone, costs are higher for many people. Therefore, comparing plans on total cost, not just the monthly premium, matters more than ever.
This article is for general information only and is not insurance or financial advice.
