Reference · Deadlines
HealthCare.gov enrollment deadlines for 2027 coverage
HealthCare.gov’s 2027 Open Enrollment period runs from 1 November 2026 to 15 January 2027. Enroll or change a plan by 15 December for coverage to start on 1 January, subject to paying the first premium. Enrollment or a plan change from 16 December through 15 January generally starts coverage on 1 February.
Sources checked
- 1 November 2026Open Enrollment begins
- 15 December 2026Deadline for 1 January start
- 1 January 2027First coverage start date
- 15 January 2027Open Enrollment ends
- 1 February 2027Second coverage start date
The date you enroll determines which ordinary start date applies. The first premium must also be paid.
Two dates govern enrollment and the start of coverage
The 15 December cutoff is for coverage that starts on 1 January. The ordinary opportunity to enroll or change a plan continues until 15 January. The next effective date for applications in that later window is 1 February. Source 1 Source 2
The first premium is part of completing enrollment
After choosing a plan, follow the insurer’s payment instructions. HealthCare.gov says coverage starts only after the first premium is paid. Keep the insurer’s confirmation and check the plan’s effective date. Source 3 Source 1
This is the HealthCare.gov calendar
CMS identifies the 1 November to 15 January dates for the federal platform. State marketplaces may operate their own enrollment calendar. Confirm the marketplace that handles your state before relying on these deadlines. Source 2 Source 1
After Open Enrollment, a separate eligibility rule applies
HealthCare.gov says a person can generally enroll or change plans outside the regular window only if they qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. That is a separate path from enrolling by the dates shown here. Source 1