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Open enrollment checklist

Once a year you can change plans. A half hour of checking can save hundreds of dollars.

HealthCare.gov and state Marketplaces

HealthCare.gov open enrollment is on now. Sign up by December 15 for coverage starting January 1.

  1. Update your expected income

    Tax credits are based on what you expect to earn next year. The larger credits of 2021 to 2025 expired, so many people will see higher premiums: re-check yours.

    Estimate my tax credit

  2. Shop, don’t just auto-renew

    If you do nothing, HealthCare.gov re-enrolls you, often in the same plan at next year’s price. A different plan may now cost less for the same coverage.

  3. Consider silver if your income is under 250% of the poverty level

    Only silver plans come with extra savings that lower deductibles and copays at those incomes.

    Check my income level

  4. Check your doctors and drugs

    Networks and drug lists change every year. Check them on each plan you’re considering.

    Check my drugs

  5. Compare the whole year

    A low premium with a high deductible can cost more if you use care. Price out a typical year.

    Compare plans by yearly cost

  6. Meet the deadline

    Sign up by December 15 for coverage starting January 1. Open enrollment on HealthCare.gov runs through January 15 (a court struck down a rule that would have shortened it; the government has appealed, so aim for December 15). State Marketplaces set their own deadlines.

Remind me before the deadline