2027 ACA Open Enrollment: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Open enrollment starts November 1. Here's what to gather, what's changing, and how to estimate your subsidy before you enroll.
The ACA Marketplace opens for 2027 coverage on November 1, 2026. If you buy your own health insurance — or if you're uninsured and want coverage — this is your window. Miss it, and you'll need a qualifying life event to enroll later. Here's what to know and how to prepare now, while there's still time.
Key dates to know
- November 1, 2026: Open enrollment begins
- December 15, 2026: Deadline for coverage starting January 1, 2027
- January 15, 2027: Final deadline — coverage starts February 1
What to gather before November 1
Household information
Names, birth dates, and Social Security numbers for everyone applying. You'll also need to know who files taxes and who can be claimed as a dependent.
Income documents
Pay stubs, W-2s, 1099s, or most recent tax return. You'll need to estimate your 2027 household income — this determines your subsidy amount.
Current insurance info
Policy numbers for any current health coverage (including employer coverage available to you or your family).
Your doctor and prescription list
If you want to keep your doctor or take specific medications, have the names ready so you can check which plans cover them.
How subsidies work
Most people who buy through the Marketplace qualify for premium tax credits that lower monthly premiums. You may also qualify for cost-sharing reductions that lower deductibles and copays — but only if you pick a Silver-tier plan.
Subsidies are based on your household income relative to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For 2026, the FPL for a single person is $15,960. If your income falls between 100% and 400% of FPL, you likely qualify. Speak with a licensed agent to get an accurate subsidy estimate before November 1.
Metal tiers explained
Lowest premium, highest out-of-pocket. Best if you rarely see a doctor and want protection against worst-case scenarios.
Balanced premium and cost-sharing. Best if you qualify for cost-sharing reductions (income 100%–250% FPL).
Higher premium, lower out-of-pocket. Best if you see doctors regularly or take expensive prescriptions.
Highest premium, lowest out-of-pocket. Best if you have high medical expenses or chronic conditions.
Important: If your income is between 100% and 250% of FPL, always compare Silver plans. Cost-sharing reductions can make Silver plans significantly cheaper than Bronze — sometimes even $0 deductibles. Don't skip this step.
Ready to enroll?
A licensed Health Plus One agent can estimate your subsidy, compare plans, and handle the enrollment — at no cost to you.
Browse real-time ACA plans and pricing through our HealthSherpa portal — no obligation to enroll.
Not sure where you stand? Take a quick quiz
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This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical, legal, or financial advice. Open enrollment dates, subsidy thresholds, and plan availability can change. Final subsidies are determined by the Marketplace during enrollment. Please visit Healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 for official information.