Open enrollment for 2026

Are you or your family looking for health insurance coverage through the individual market?

Have you recently lost Medicaid coverage or worry you may be at risk of losing coverage?

Now is the time to shop and enroll in health insurance for 2026. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) open enrollment period runs November 1, 2025, through January 15, 2026. During this time, you can sign up for a new plan or make changes for the upcoming year.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield (BCBS) companies offer a range of coverage options designed to fit your needs. Before enrolling, think about your health needs and budget, including the doctors you want to see and prescriptions you take, as well as how much you can afford in monthly premiums and deductibles.

If you’re unsure how the health care tax credit might lower your monthly costs or why there may be confusion this year, check out our new guide.

Information on health insurance plan options can be found directly on BCBS company websites or at HealthCare.gov.

BCBS companies are committed to helping you access to the health care you need. To apply or re-enroll in your marketplace coverage, visit HealthCare.gov or call the Marketplace Call Center at 1-800-318-2596. TTY users can call 1-855-889-4325.

State-specific enrollment dates

Seven states have different open enrollment windows:

• California: November 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026
• Idaho: October 15, 2025 – December 15, 2025
• Massachusetts: November 1, 2025 – January 23, 2026
• New Jersey: November 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026
• New York: November 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026
• Rhode Island: November 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026
• Washington, DC: November 1, 2025 – January 31, 2026

After January 15, you can only purchase insurance or make changes if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.