When Is Open Enrollment for 2025-2026?

The 2026 Open Enrollment Period (OEP) begins November 1, 2025, and ends usually January 15, 2026, in most states.¹

The chart below shows the 2026 OEP dates for the states that use the federal Health Insurance Marketplace. Coverage begins January 1.²

If you have a Special Enrollment Period, coverage will begin the first day of the month after you sign up.  For example, if you sign up on February 15, your coverage will be effective March 1.

Some states with their own ACA exchanges have different date ranges for the 2026 Open Enrollment Period. The chart below shows the SEP and OEP dates for these states.³

I missed my state’s Open Enrollment deadline? Can I still get healthcare coverage?

If you missed the enrollment deadline in your state, it is still possible that you can qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) that will allow you to apply for health insurance. You can qualify for an SEP if you have experienced a qualifying life event.

Qualifying life events can include:²⁴

• The loss of health insurance through a job.
• Household changes such as marriage, divorce, a death in the family, or having a baby.
• A change in your home address.

See a list of qualifying life events. You have 60 days (before or after, depending on the qualifying event) to enroll in a plan, if you qualify for an SEP.²⁵ But, if you miss that 60-day window, you will have to wait until OEP to enroll in an individual health insurance policy for 2026.

Missed the Open Enrollment deadline? Short-term insurance may be an option

If you missed the 2026 Open Enrollment Period in your state and you do not qualify for an SEP, you may be able to apply for a short-term health insurance plan in some states.

• Short-term health insurance coverage can be purchased outside of OEP. The duration can range from 1 month up to nearly three years, depending on your state and the plan.^{26, 27}
• Short-term health insurance plans function as a temporary fit for healthy people, as they will not cover pre-existing conditions, and may be subject to medical underwriting.
• If you do not qualify for an SEP and decide not to apply for a short-term health plan, you will have to wait until Open Enrollment 2027 begins in fall 2026.

HealthMarkets can help you determine whether you qualify for an SEP and find an individual health plan that meets your needs.

• Shop, compare, and enroll in a health plan online or call us to speak with a licensed insurance agent at (800) 827-9990.