Don’t Get Stuck: Open Enrollment Deadlines You Can’t Miss

We’re in the final stretch of open enrollment, and there are some critical deadlines and reminders you need to know—especially if you want your 2026 health insurance coverage to start January 1st.

✅ Deadline for Jan 1 Coverage:

You must enroll in a plan by December 15th for it to take effect on January 1. If you miss this date and aren’t losing other coverage, you may have to wait until February 1 for new coverage to start.

⚠️ Auto-Renew = Price Shock:

If you already have a Marketplace plan and don’t take action, it will automatically renew. Sounds easy, right? But here’s the kicker: many people are seeing drastic price increases. Imagine going from $150/month to $600/month because you didn’t turn off auto-renew. Don’t let this happen.

If you don’t want to renew your plan, you must turn off auto-renew manually in healthcare.gov or by calling the Marketplace—unless you work with me. If you’re my client, just let me know and I’ll handle it for you.

🛑 Aetna Is Leaving the Marketplace

If you had Aetna in 2025, your coverage is ending. The Marketplace may auto-match you to a “similar” plan—but that plan might not include your doctors or prescriptions. That’s why it’s so important to review your options.

🎯 Good News: Special Enrollment Is Available

If you’re losing Aetna or any other type of coverage (like an employer plan), you have until December 31st to enroll for coverage starting January 1, under a special enrollment period. Don’t wait until the last minute—I won’t be working New Year’s Eve!

🔁 If You Miss the Deadline:

If your plan auto-renews and it’s not a good fit, you can still make changes until January 15, but your new plan won’t take effect until February 1. That could leave you stuck with the wrong coverage for a month.

📲 Call to Action:

Need help reviewing your current plan or exploring new options?

Book a time with me ASAP — before the deadlines pass. 👉 Schedule your free consultation now