Health Insurance

Open Enrollment 2026: Key Dates and How to Sign Up for Health Insurance in the United States

Everything you need to know about signing up for health insurance in the U.S. this year, from important deadlines to smart tips for saving on your coverage.

Jose Luis Pelaez | Getty Images

Daniela Barrera

Estados Unidos Update: Oct 27th, 2025 07:06 EDT

Open Enrollment 2026 is here—and if you’re planning to get health coverage for the year ahead, now’s the time to act.

Each fall, millions of Americans review their health plans, switch to better options, or sign up for coverage through Medicare or the Health Insurance Marketplace created under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). It’s the only time of year most people can make these changes, so knowing the deadlines and steps is essential.

Who can sign up for health insurance?

Anyone living in the United States—citizens, legal residents, or green card holders—may be eligible for Marketplace coverage, as long as they’re not currently incarcerated.

Because plan options and prices change every year, it’s smart to compare coverage before you renew. Even if you already have a plan, you could find better rates or more benefits this time around.

Open enrollment 2026: key dates and deadlines

Mark your calendar:

Open Enrollment begins Saturday, November 1, 2025, and runs through December 15, 2025.If you sign up during this period, your coverage will begin January 1, 2026.
Late Enrollment Window: If you miss that first deadline, you can still enroll between December 16, 2025, and January 15, 2026. However, your coverage will not start until February 1, 2026.

Remember—this is your main chance to enroll or make changes unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) due to life events such as losing coverage, getting married, having a baby, or moving to a new state.

How to apply for health coverage

Getting covered is easier than you might think.

Visit HealthCare.gov
Create or update your account.
Fill out your application with your personal details and household information.
Check whether you qualify for financial help—many people receive tax credits that lower monthly premiums or reduce out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and copays.
Compare available plans, choose the one that fits your needs, and activate it by paying your first premium.

If you prefer personalized help, the official site offers tools to connect you with trained Marketplace Navigators who can guide you through the process at no cost.

Financial assistance: What you could save

Many enrollees qualify for premium tax credits or cost-sharing reductions, depending on income level and household size. These subsidies can significantly lower what you pay each month—and they’re available only if you enroll through HealthCare.gov or your state’s official Marketplace.

Even if you don’t think you’ll qualify, it’s worth checking. Last year, nearly 90% of Marketplace users received some form of financial assistance.