Obamacare 2027: Open Enrollment dates and how to sign up
Marketplace Open Enrollment for 2027 runs November 1 to January 15; enroll by December 15 for January 1 coverage. What to prepare and how to compare plans.
Quick answer
Open Enrollment on HealthCare.gov for 2027 coverage runs from November 1, 2026 to January 15, 2027. Enroll by December 15 for coverage that starts January 1. Outside those dates you can enroll only with a Special Enrollment Period after a life event such as marriage, a new baby, a move or losing other coverage.
Key takeaways
- Open Enrollment for 2027: November 1, 2026 to January 15, 2027.
- Enroll by December 15 for coverage starting January 1.
- After January 15 you need a Special Enrollment Period.
- Medicaid and CHIP accept applications all year.
“Obamacare” is the popular name for Health Insurance Marketplace plans created by the Affordable Care Act. Each year there is a season to sign up or change plans: Open Enrollment.
Dates for 2027 coverage
| If you enroll | Coverage starts |
|---|---|
| November 1 to December 15, 2026 | January 1, 2027 |
| December 16, 2026 to January 15, 2027 | February 1, 2027 |
| After January 15 | Only with a Special Enrollment Period |
These are HealthCare.gov dates. Some states run their own marketplace and may give more time; if you live in one, check its site.
What to have ready
- Social Security numbers or immigration documents for everyone applying.
- Expected 2027 household income (pay stubs, W-2s or an estimate if you are self-employed). See W-2 vs. 1099.
- Information about any coverage your job offers.
- A list of doctors and prescriptions you use, to check they are covered.
How to compare plans
- Monthly premium: what you pay every month.
- Deductible: what you pay out of pocket before the plan pays for certain services.
- Out-of-pocket maximum: the most you would pay in a year for covered services.
- Provider network: which doctors and hospitals the plan accepts.
A low-premium plan can cost more overall if it has a very high deductible and you use care often. Build it into your monthly budget.
Help paying
Depending on income and household size, you may get a premium tax credit that lowers your monthly payment. The application tells you whether you qualify. If your income changes during the year, update your application to avoid owing money at tax time.
Outside Open Enrollment
After January 15 you can enroll or change plans only if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, for example after marriage, having or adopting a child, moving or losing other coverage. Medicaid and CHIP accept applications at any time.
Avoid scams
Enroll only through HealthCare.gov, your state’s official marketplace or a certified assister. Do not give your information to callers offering “free Obamacare,” and never pay to enroll.
General information, not insurance or legal advice. Dates are HealthCare.gov dates for 2027 coverage.
Frequently asked questions
When is Obamacare Open Enrollment for 2027?
On HealthCare.gov it runs from November 1, 2026 to January 15, 2027. Some states run their own marketplace with different dates; check your state's site.
What if I enroll after December 15?
If you enroll or change plans between December 16 and January 15 and pay your first premium, coverage starts February 1.
Can I enroll outside Open Enrollment?
Only if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period after a life event such as marriage, a new baby, a move or losing other health coverage. Medicaid and CHIP accept applications any time.
Is there help paying for coverage?
Depending on your income and household, you may qualify for a premium tax credit that lowers your monthly premium. The HealthCare.gov application tells you if you qualify and how much.
Where can I get free help?
From certified assisters and navigators in your area, who help at no cost. Be wary of anyone who charges to enroll you or asks for payments outside the official site.
Sources
- Dates and deadlines for 2027 health insurance HealthCare.gov (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)
This article is general and educational; it is not personalized financial, legal or tax advice. Financial product terms change: always confirm current terms with the institution.