Health Insurance
2027 Open Enrollment in Texas: dates, deadlines and what to do first
Open Enrollment for 2027 Marketplace plans runs Nov 1, 2026 to Jan 15, 2027. Enroll by Dec 15 for coverage that starts Jan 1. Here is what to prepare.
Open Enrollment is the one window each year when anyone in Texas can buy or change a Marketplace (ACA, Obamacare) health plan without a qualifying life event. For 2027 coverage it runs from November 1, 2026 to January 15, 2027 on HealthCare.gov.
The three dates that matter
- November 1, 2026 — Open Enrollment opens and 2027 prices become visible.
- December 15, 2026 — the last day to pick a plan if you want coverage to start on January 1, 2027.
- January 15, 2027 — the last day of Open Enrollment. Plans picked between December 16 and January 15 start on February 1.
After January 15 you can usually enroll only if you have a qualifying life event, such as losing job-based coverage, moving to Texas, getting married or having a baby. Those events open a 60-day Special Enrollment Period.
What to have ready before you shop
- Your ZIP code and county. Plans and prices are set by county, sometimes inside one ZIP code.
- Everyone on your tax return — even people who don't need coverage. Household size affects your tax credit.
- Your best estimate of 2027 household income. The premium tax credit is based on expected income for the year and reconciled at tax time.
- Your doctors, hospital and prescriptions. Networks and drug lists change every year.
Already have a plan? Don't just let it renew
If you do nothing, HealthCare.gov may re-enroll you in the same or a similar plan. Premiums, networks and drug lists change each year, so compare your renewal with the other 2027 plans before December 15. Here's what to check before you renew.
Compare plans in a couple of minutes
Our new plan comparison tool shows Marketplace plans for your ZIP code with your estimated monthly price after the tax credit, the deductible and the out-of-pocket maximum. You can enroll online yourself, or send the plan to Roman Shopin, a licensed Texas agent, and he will check your doctors and prescriptions first. Help is free — the plan costs the same as on HealthCare.gov.
Frequently asked questions
When is Open Enrollment for 2027 in Texas?
November 1, 2026 to January 15, 2027, on HealthCare.gov.
What is the deadline for coverage starting January 1, 2027?
December 15, 2026. Plans picked from December 16 to January 15 start on February 1.
Can I enroll after January 15?
Usually only with a qualifying life event, such as losing other coverage, moving, marriage or the birth of a child. These open a 60-day Special Enrollment Period.
Does it cost more to enroll through an agent?
No. The plan price is the same as on HealthCare.gov, and the agent's help is free to you.