When Is Open Enrollment for Health Insurance 2026 by State?

Open Enrollment for health insurance is an important yearly event that allows individuals and families to select or modify their health insurance plans for the upcoming year. While the federal Open Enrollment period typically follows a standard schedule, some states operate their own health insurance marketplaces with slightly different timelines. Knowing the when is open enrollment for health insurance 2026 will help you plan effectively and ensure you don’t miss your opportunity to secure coverage.
Federal Open Enrollment Timeline
For most states that use the federal health insurance marketplace, Open Enrollment for coverage beginning in 2026 is scheduled from November 1, 2025, through December 15, 2025. During this period, residents can sign up for new health insurance, renew existing plans, or make changes such as adding dependents or switching plans.
State-Specific Open Enrollment Dates
Several states run their own health insurance exchanges, which may have Open Enrollment dates that differ slightly from the federal schedule. Below is an overview of some states with their 2026 Open Enrollment timelines:
• California: The Covered California marketplace usually aligns with the federal timeline, running from November 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026. This extended period offers more flexibility for residents to enroll or update coverage.
• New York: New York State of Health typically follows the federal dates but often extends the deadline to January 31, 2026, allowing additional time for enrollment.
• Massachusetts: Known for its own health insurance system, Massachusetts generally offers Open Enrollment from November 1, 2025, to January 23, 2026.
• Colorado: Connect for Health Colorado generally aligns with federal dates but may extend the enrollment window to mid-January.
• Washington: The Washington Health Benefit Exchange often follows the federal schedule but sometimes offers extended deadlines.
• Other States: States such as Oregon, Vermont, and Rhode Island also run state-based exchanges with enrollment periods similar to or slightly longer than the federal timeline.
Why Do Enrollment Dates Vary by State?
States operating their own health insurance marketplaces have the authority to set Open Enrollment periods tailored to their residents’ needs. Extensions beyond the federal deadline can provide more time to evaluate plan options and accommodate special circumstances.
What If You Miss Your State’s Open Enrollment?
Missing the Open Enrollment deadline means you typically cannot enroll or change plans unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). Qualifying life events like marriage, childbirth, or loss of other coverage can trigger SEP eligibility, allowing enrollment outside the regular window.
How to Stay Informed
Because enrollment periods may vary and updates can occur, it is important to check your state’s official health insurance marketplace website for the most accurate and up-to-date information about Open Enrollment dates. Additionally, employer-sponsored insurance may have different enrollment windows, so be sure to verify with your benefits administrator.
In Summary
While most states follow the federal Open Enrollment dates of November 1, 2025, through December 15, 2025, several states offer extended enrollment periods through January 2026. Understanding your state’s specific timeline ensures you have enough time to review your options and select the best health insurance plan for 2026. Staying informed and prepared will help you maintain continuous coverage and protect your health throughout the year.