ACA Open Enrollment Will Begin November 1 for 2027

As premiums rise and insurers exit markets, households should review their coverage options before the 2027 plan year starts.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Insurance

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of an administrative document folder, conveying the structure of health insurance policy with gravitas and restraint. — The ACA open enrollment period for 2027 coverage begins November 1, with households facing premium increases and insurer exits across many state marketplaces. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you feel that health insurance is becoming more affordable for your household this year?

The Affordable Care Act open enrollment period for 2027 coverage begins on November 1, 2026. Households nationwide should prepare for a landscape featuring insurer exits in 24 states and a median proposed rate increase of approximately 15%.

Why it matters

Higher benchmark premiums are driving changes to subsidy calculations, while the expiration of federal subsidy enhancements at the end of 2025 creates new financial pressures for families. These shifts, combined with carrier departures, may require many enrollees to select new plans to maintain coverage.

Nationwide, the median proposed rate increase for individual-market plans is 15% for 2027. Additionally, the out-of-pocket maximum for an individual will rise to $12,000, while HSA contribution limits are set at $4,500 for individuals and $9,000 for families.

The players

HealthCare.gov

The federal health insurance marketplace platform that facilitates enrollment for residents in many states.

Explore Health

A new state-run health insurance enrollment platform being implemented in Oregon for the 2027 plan year.

The details

Marketplaces may automatically reassign enrollees to new plans if their current carrier exits the market, necessitating a proactive review of provider networks and prescription formularies. Residents in certain states may face additional identity verification requirements when using HealthCare.gov. Furthermore, those utilizing Health Savings Accounts should note the adjusted contribution limits for the upcoming coverage period.

Nov. 1, 2026: ACA open enrollment period begins.
End of 2026: Many Marketplace plans terminate due to carrier exits.
2027: Coverage period with new premium and subsidy rules begins.

Money Landscape

This year's open enrollment period occurs as the healthcare system navigates the expiration of federal subsidy enhancements that concluded at the end of 2025. The shift places greater emphasis on individual plan selection as the market reacts to rising benchmark premiums.

Households should verify their current plan's status to see if their carrier is exiting the market, as automatic re-enrollment may not match your previous provider network. Review your estimated subsidy eligibility, as higher benchmark premiums could potentially increase the financial assistance for which you qualify.

The takeaway

The 2027 enrollment period presents a complex environment due to widespread carrier exits and changes in federal support. Consult with a qualified professional to review your specific premium and coverage options before the November 1 start date.