Health & WellnessSeasonal

ACA Open Enrollment for 2027: HealthCare.gov Dates and Deadlines

HealthCare.gov Open Enrollment for 2027 coverage starts November 1, 2026. Know the December 15 deadline for January 1 coverage and what to prepare.

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Photo by Eric Rothermel on Unsplash

Medical notice

This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are worried about symptoms, talk to a clinician; in an emergency, call 911.

Short answer: on HealthCare.gov, you can apply for 2027 coverage starting November 1, 2026. The page lists December 15, 2026 as the last day to enroll or change plans for coverage that starts January 1, 2027, and January 15, 2027 as the last day of Open Enrollment.

Key dates (HealthCare.gov)

Date What it means
November 1, 2026 You can start applying for 2027 coverage
December 15, 2026 Last day to enroll or change plans for coverage starting January 1 (you must also pay the first premium)
January 15, 2027 Last day to enroll or change plans in Open Enrollment

If your state runs its own marketplace, dates can differ. Check your state's site.

What to prepare

  • Household members and expected 2027 income.
  • Social Security numbers or document details for people who need coverage.
  • Information about any employer coverage offered.
  • Your current plan information, if you are renewing.

How to compare plans

  1. Look at the total cost: premium, deductible, copays and out-of-pocket limit.
  2. Check the provider network and your prescriptions.
  3. Review whether you may qualify for savings based on your income. The application tells you.
  4. Compare plans in the same tier before you decide.

What we can't tell you

We can't say which plan or what price suits you. Plan availability and costs depend on where you live and your household. Treat dates as current as of October 12, 2026, and confirm on the official site.

Frequently asked questions

Is Medicare part of this? No. Medicare has its own period; read about Medicare Open Enrollment.

What if I miss the deadline? Some life events (for example, losing other coverage) can open a special enrollment period. Check HealthCare.gov.

Next steps

Gather your income details, start your application in November, and aim to finish before December 15 if you want January 1 coverage.