The majority of open enrollment periods for health insurance for 2026 begin in November, although Medicare starts and ends earlier than others, including the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace. Here’s what dates you need to know.
Eligible adults aged 65-years and older can qualify for Medicare Part A to help pay for inpatient stays in hospitals, skilled nursing faciliites and some home care of end-of-life hospice care and Part B covers doctor’s services, diagnostic screenings, lab tests, outpatient care, preventative services and some medical equipement and transportation, according to AARP.
The ACA Marketplace is open to U.S. citizens or non-citizens that are lawfully present living in the US and are not incarcerated. This healthcare insurance option also includes possible fianancial assistance for those with household incomes between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level or potentially higher.
While there is usually a similar timeline for private insurance open through employers, employees should check with their Human Reseouce departments or benefits administrators for specific open enrollment dates and details
When is Medicare open enrollment for 2026?
Open Enrollment for Medicare health insurance coverage happens from October 15 – December 7, according to Medicare.gov, and it is the time of year when you can make changes to your existing coverage.
During this enrollment period, you can join, drop, or switch to another Medicare Advantage Plan, Original Medicare, or drug plans.
When is ACA Marketplace open enrollment 2026?
The ACA Marketplace health insurance enrollment starts on Nov. 1 for coverage beginning Jan. 1, 2026, according to Healthcare.gov for most states. The last day to enroll or change plans for coverage to start on Jan. 1 and open enrollment officially ends for the year, unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.
A few states have different deadlines to note, such as:
When is open enrollment for Medicare 2026 Marketplace health insurance
