ACA open enrollment opens November 1 for 2027 coverage. Whether you’re renewing current coverage or shopping for a plan for the first time, this checklist will help you prepare and make the most of the enrollment window.
Before November 1
- ☐ Estimate your 2027 household income (including all sources)
- ☐ List all family members who need coverage and their ages
- ☐ Compile a list of current doctors, specialists, and hospitals you want to keep in-network
- ☐ List all regular prescription medications (name, dosage, frequency)
- ☐ Review your 2026 plan — what worked, what didn’t, how much you actually spent out-of-pocket
- ☐ Contact your broker (or find one) to get a head start on plan comparisons
During Open Enrollment (Nov 1 – Jan 15)
- ☐ Confirm your subsidy eligibility based on projected income
- ☐ Compare at least 3–5 plans across different carriers and tiers
- ☐ Verify that your doctors are in-network on any plan you’re considering
- ☐ Check the drug formulary for all your medications on each plan
- ☐ Calculate total annual cost (premium × 12 + estimated out-of-pocket) for top plan candidates
- ☐ Evaluate HSA eligibility if you’re considering an HDHP
- ☐ Enroll by December 15 for January 1 coverage
After Enrollment
- ☐ Confirm your enrollment confirmation from the carrier
- ☐ Watch for your new insurance ID cards (usually arrives by late December)
- ☐ Set up your carrier’s online member portal
- ☐ Notify your doctors of your new insurance information for January appointments
- ☐ Update your FSA election if you’re contributing for the new year
- ☐ Update beneficiary designations on any life coverage
Year-Round
- ☐ Report income changes to the marketplace during the year to keep your subsidy accurate
- ☐ Report qualifying life events promptly to trigger any needed mid-year changes
- ☐ Keep your broker’s contact information accessible for questions
Garden State Benefits handles every item on this list for you. Contact Paul now to get ahead of the November rush and go into open enrollment fully prepared.