Many individuals and families missed the initial enrollment window for Health Insurance Marketplace plans for 2026. Don’t worry — if you act quickly, you can still get coverage for 2026. Anyone who enrolls by January 15 can get coverage starting February 1.
Why Enroll Now?
No one plans to get sick or injured, but many people will need health care during the year. Something as simple as treating a broken leg can cost up to $7,500.1 According to the National Cancer Institute, the average cost of medical care and drugs tops $42,000 in the year following a cancer diagnosis, with some treatments exceeding $1 million.2
Health insurance is more than peace of mind for the unexpected; it can also help keep you healthy. Marketplace plans cover checkups, vaccines, yearly bloodwork, and cancer screenings at no extra cost. Even with the enhanced tax credits expiring, depending on things like income and where you live, some individuals may still qualify for a subsidy that covers 100% of their monthly premium.
Guidance is available at no extra cost
After Open Enrollment ends on January 15, you can only enroll in a Marketplace plan if you’ve had a major life change, like getting married, moving to a new county, or having a baby. If finding the right health insurance plan seems confusing, you can get help.
Visit FloridaBlue.com/StayCovered to learn more about the government changes to this year’s Open Enrollment and how to connect with a local licensed Florida Blue agent or a neighborhood Florida Blue Center.
Sources:
1https://www.healthcare.gov/why-coverage-is-important/protection-from-high-medical-costs/
Florida Blue is a trade name of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc., an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Policies have limitations and exclusions.