Open Enrollment 2025: What You Need to Know Before December 15

Open Enrollment is just around the corner, and this year brings big changes you need to know about—especially if you want to avoid unexpected fees and huge premium increases. Here’s what’s new and what you should do now to prepare.

1. The Good News (and the Bad News)

Originally, the government planned to shorten the Open Enrollment period starting this year, but that change has been delayed until 2026. For now, the timeline is the same as last year:

✔ November 1 – December 15 for January 1 start dates

✔ You have until January 15 for a February 1 start date if you miss the first deadline.

The bad news? Premiums are going up—some Blue Cross plans are expecting double-digit increases, even up to 30%. Combined with the loss of extra tax credits for middle-income families, this means many households will see higher costs in 2025.

2. Passive Renewal Will Cost You

In the past, you could let your plan auto-renew and call it a day. Not anymore. If you allow a passive renewal without updating your application:

✔ You’ll pay a $5 monthly penalty until you update your application

✔ You risk being moved to a “similar plan” that may cost hundreds more per month and might not include your doctors or prescriptions

The bottom line? Don’t skip this step. Even if you plan to keep the same coverage, log in and actively renew or schedule a time with me so we can handle it together.

3. Why This Matters

When plans change, insurance companies don’t know your doctors, prescriptions, or preferences. They pick based on benefits—not networks or cost. That’s why I always review your plan details and shop around to make sure you’re getting the best coverage for your needs and budget.

4. What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

✔ Miss December 15? You can still enroll until January 15, but your coverage won’t start until February 1.

✔ If you’re auto-renewed into the wrong plan, you’re stuck with it for January.

✔ Special exceptions: If your insurance company completely leaves the market (like Aetna will in 2026), you have a qualifying life event and can enroll up until December 31.

Next Steps

This year is going to bring more conversations, more planning, and more strategy—especially for those losing subsidies or facing big premium increases. There are alternatives to the Marketplace for healthy individuals and business owners, but for most people with pre-existing conditions, the Marketplace is still the best option.

✅ Schedule your Open Enrollment review now at jkappconsulting.com

Don’t wait—appointments fill up fast, and the deadline is just around the corner.