ACA Open Enrollment Will Begin November 1

Consumers face rising premiums and insurer exits as the 2027 Affordable Care Act enrollment period approaches.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Insurance

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a medical cross made of steel beams, representing health insurance market policy and institutional change. — The 2027 Affordable Care Act open enrollment period begins November 1, as consumers navigate rising premiums and insurer exits across 24 states. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you feel that health insurance is becoming more affordable for your household this year?

The Affordable Care Act open enrollment period for 2027 coverage will begin on November 1, 2026. Enrollees face a shifting landscape characterized by higher premiums, insurer exits in 24 states, and updated subsidy eligibility rules.

Why it matters

Rising benchmark premiums are altering subsidy calculations, while the expiration of federal enhancements and a court ruling on Catastrophic plan eligibility necessitate careful plan reviews for 2027.

Nationwide median proposed rate increases for 2027 stand at approximately 15%, with Arizona facing a 29% surge. Meanwhile, out-of-pocket maximums for individuals are set at $12,000, and HSA limits rise to $4,500 for individuals and $9,000 for families.

The players

HealthCare.gov

This federal health insurance exchange serves as the primary enrollment portal for the Affordable Care Act in many states.

Explore Health

This is a new state-run enrollment platform being implemented in Oregon for the 2027 coverage period.

The details

Insurers are exiting ACA Marketplaces in 24 states, potentially forcing automatic plan reassignments for affected consumers. Additionally, identity verification requirements are increasing for states utilizing HealthCare.gov, and new eligibility restrictions for non-citizens have been implemented.

Nov. 1, 2026: ACA open enrollment period begins.
2027: Coverage period featuring new premium and subsidy rules.
End of 2026: Many Marketplace plans will terminate due to carrier exits.
End of 2025: Federal subsidy enhancements expired.

Market Dynamics

The insurance market continues to fluctuate under the structural framework of the Affordable Care Act. Ongoing carrier exits and the expiration of pandemic-era federal subsidies mark a significant departure from previous years of increased stabilization.

Consumers should verify their current plan's status, as carrier exits in 24 states may result in automatic reassignments. Additionally, households must review 2027 subsidy eligibility and HSA limits to adjust their personal savings and health spending strategies accordingly.

The takeaway

Enrollees should proactively compare 2027 plan options to account for potential carrier changes and shifting premium benchmarks. Monitoring updates in states like Rhode Island or Oregon is essential as localized policy adjustments may provide additional support for specific demographics.