If you get your health insurance through the Affordable Care Act, 2027 is bringing several changes worth knowing about before Open Enrollment begins. The biggest one has already started to affect coverage: the enhanced ACA premium subsidies expired at the end of 2025.
There are also new income-verification requirements, changes to Special Enrollment Periods, and a shorter Open Enrollment window.
Our independent agents at McKnight & McKnight Insurance Solutions cover what you need to know.
What Is Changing with ACA Health Insurance in 2027?
The Affordable Care Act itself is still in place, but several rules are changing for the 2027 plan year.
First, the federal government is increasing income and eligibility verification for applicants, including additional verification in certain situations where income information cannot be confirmed through available data. Special Enrollment Periods will also have a new verification process.
There are changes to plan requirements, enrollment rules, and the way some benefits can be structured, too. States will have additional flexibility around Essential Health Benefits, including the option to add routine adult dental services to their benchmark plans beginning in 2027.
What Happened to the Enhanced ACA Subsidies?
The enhanced ACA subsidies that provided additional financial assistance for Marketplace coverage expired at the end of 2025. As a result, 2026 was the first plan year without this additional assistance.
It is important to understand that ACA subsidies did not go away entirely. Eligible individuals and families may still qualify for the traditional Premium Tax Credit based on household income and other eligibility requirements. What ended was the temporary enhancement that made those subsidies larger and extended financial assistance to some households that previously earned too much to qualify.
For 2027, the expiration of the enhanced subsidies is not a new change. However, if you receive a Marketplace subsidy, your financial assistance should still be reviewed each year. The amount you qualify for can change based on your household income, family size, age, location and the cost of Marketplace coverage in your area.
Will ACA Health Insurance Cost More in 2027?
Health insurance premiums are expected to increase again in 2027, largely due to the continued rise in healthcare costs, including hospital care, physician services and prescription drugs. Your actual premium change will depend on your insurance company, plan and individual circumstances.
That makes it especially important to review your available plans instead of assuming your current plan will still be the best fit for your budget.
When Is Open Enrollment for 2027 Coverage?
Open Enrollment for 2027 coverage is scheduled for November 1 through December 15, 2026 for coverage effective January 1, 2027. January 15, 2027 is the final day of Open Enrollment. Policies written by January 15 will have an effective date of February 1, 2027.
If you plan to enroll in an ACA plan, we strongly encourage you to schedule your phone appointment as soon as possible. Appointments fill very quickly during Open Enrollment, and waiting until the last minute can make the process more stressful, especially if you need time to compare several plans and find the best fit for your needs.
Are There New Income-Verification Requirements?
Yes. The Marketplace has strengthened its income verification requirements for 2027. While many applicants will continue to have their income verified electronically, some individuals may be asked to provide additional documentation if the income reported on their application cannot be verified using available federal data.
In practical terms, make sure the income information on your health insurance application is accurate and respond promptly if the Marketplace requests additional documentation.
Are Special Enrollment Period Rules Changing?
Yes. Special Enrollment Period eligibility requirements are becoming more stringent for 2027.
The income-based Special Enrollment Period that previously allowed certain lower-income individuals to enroll in Marketplace coverage throughout the year is no longer available. In most cases, enrolling outside of Open Enrollment will require a qualifying life event (marriage, having a baby, losing qualifying health coverage, moving) or other eligible circumstance.
The Marketplace will also be conducting additional verification of Special Enrollment Period eligibility. If you apply for coverage outside of Open Enrollment, you may be required to provide documentation showing that you qualify.
The takeaway: Don’t assume you can wait until after Open Enrollment to purchase ACA coverage. If you need coverage for 2027 and do not have another enrollment opportunity, completing your enrollment during Open Enrollment is important.
Are ACA Benefits Changing in 2027?
The core ACA protections remain. However, plan designs and available benefits can vary by state and insurer.
One change to watch is adult dental coverage. Beginning in 2027, states can update their Essential Health Benefit benchmark plans to include routine non-pediatric dental services. But one thing to remember is that doesn’t mean every plan will automatically include dental coverage.
Your plan’s network, prescriptions, deductibles, copays, and covered services can also change from year to year, so reviewing the details matters.
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Prepare for Open Enrollment
Open Enrollment is a good time to take a fresh look at your health insurance coverage, and our team at McKnight & McKnight Insurance Solutions can help you make sense of your options.
Start by gathering your expected 2027 household income and making sure your household information is up to date. Then, review your current plan’s premium, deductible, out-of-pocket maximum, provider network, and prescription coverage. Even if you expect to be automatically re-enrolled, it’s important to compare your options for the new year.
With rules and subsidy changes for 2027, understanding how your income and household information may affect your coverage can be complicated. Bob and Heather McKnight can help you review your current plan, understand your options, and find coverage that fits your needs and budget for 2027.
Schedule your complimentary appointment online or call us at (813) 792-2301 or (866) 525-0368 today!
