Open Enrollment for 2027 health insurance coverage runs from November 1 through January 15, 2027. This is the one window each year when most Americans can enroll in — or switch — an Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plan without needing a qualifying life event. Missing this window means waiting until next year unless something changes in your life.
Key 2027 Open Enrollment Dates
- November 1, 2026 – Open Enrollment begins. Plans go on sale.
- December 15, 2026 – Last day to enroll for January 1, 2027 coverage.
- January 15, 2027 – Open Enrollment closes. Last day to enroll for February 1, 2027 coverage.
If you want your new coverage to start on January 1st, you must complete enrollment by December 15, 2026. Enrollments completed between December 16 and January 15 will have a February 1, 2027 effective date.
Who Should Act During 2027 Open Enrollment?
Open Enrollment is important for anyone who is:
- Currently uninsured and needs health coverage
- On a plan that is no longer offered, discontinued, or significantly more expensive
- Experiencing major life changes like a new job, income change, or growing family
- On COBRA and looking for a more affordable option
- Self-employed, a freelancer, or a gig worker without employer coverage
- A small business owner looking for individual coverage separate from your business
Even if you’re happy with your current plan, it’s worth reviewing your options each year. Insurers change networks, premiums, and formularies annually — what worked well in 2026 may not be the best fit for 2027.
What Plans Are Available?
Marketplace plans are grouped into four metal tiers based on how they split costs between you and the insurer:
- Bronze – Lowest premiums, highest out-of-pocket costs. Best for healthy individuals who rarely use healthcare.
- Silver – Middle ground. The only tier eligible for cost-sharing reductions (CSRs) if your income qualifies.
- Gold – Higher premiums, lower out-of-pocket costs. Good if you use healthcare regularly.
- Platinum – Highest premiums, lowest out-of-pocket costs. Best for those with chronic conditions or frequent care needs.
Will You Qualify for Subsidies in 2027?
Millions of Americans qualify for premium tax credits that significantly reduce monthly costs. Eligibility is based on your estimated household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Under current law, subsidies are available across a wide income range — many middle-income families qualify for meaningful help.
The only way to know your exact subsidy is to apply through the marketplace. An independent broker can run those numbers for you at no cost before you commit to anything.
What About New Jersey Residents?
New Jersey runs its own state marketplace called Get Covered NJ (getcovered.nj.gov). NJ residents enroll there rather than through the federal HealthCare.gov. NJ also offers additional state subsidies on top of federal tax credits, which can reduce premiums further for qualifying residents.
Questions about 2027 Open Enrollment? Contact Paul at Garden State Benefits for a no-cost, no-obligation review of your 2027 options — he’s a licensed independent broker serving individuals and families across 26 states.
Or visit our Individual & Family Plans page to learn more about what’s available in your area.