10/16/2026
Open enrollment is more than checking the same boxes as last year. Plans, costs, coverage, and your personal needs can all change, making this an important time to review how your benefits fit into your broader financial plan.
Key dates for the 2026 enrollment season:
• 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝗘𝗻𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: October 15 through December 7, 2026, for changes to 2027 Medicare health and prescription drug coverage.
• 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲.𝗴𝗼𝘃 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲: November 1, 2026, through January 15, 2027. Enroll by December 15 for coverage beginning January 1. State-based Marketplace deadlines may differ.
• 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗼𝘆𝗲𝗿-𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁𝘀: Enrollment dates vary by employer, so confirm your deadline with your HR or benefits team.
Look beyond the monthly premium. Compare deductibles, out-of-pocket limits, provider networks, prescription coverage, HSA or FSA eligibility, disability and life insurance, retirement contributions, and beneficiary information.
Put your deadline on the calendar, review what has changed, and consider how each selection fits your healthcare needs and financial priorities for the year ahead.