Health plan season is here: Key dates for Medicare, ACA and the Health Connector

Fall shopping season for health insurance is underway. Medicare's annual open enrollment started Thursday, Oct. 15, and marketplace windows for 2027 plans open in the coming weeks.

The calendar

| Program | Window | Source | |---|---|---| | Medicare | Oct. 15 – Dec. 7, 2026 | Medicare.gov, CMS | | Mass. Health Connector | Oct. 23, 2026 – Jan. 23, 2027 | Boston Globe, HealthInsurance.org | | HealthCare.gov | Nov. 1 – Jan. 15 | HealthCare.gov |

On HealthCare.gov, Dec. 15 is the last day to pick or change a plan for coverage starting Jan. 1, the site says.

Medicare changes for 2027

During the Medicare window, enrollees can switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, or join, drop or change drug plans, according to Medicare.gov. Changes take effect Jan. 1, and the plan must receive a request by Dec. 7.

The Associated Press, in a report published by ABC News, said the annual Part D out-of-pocket cap rises to $2,400 from $2,100, and the standard deductible climbs to $700 from $615. The AP also reported some Medicare Advantage plans are leaving certain areas or trimming extras such as dental.

Massachusetts outlook

The Boston Globe reported in September that about 350,000 residents hold individual Connector coverage, and that unsubsidized non-group premiums are set to rise an average of 12.4% in 2027. The Globe said roughly 30,000 to 35,000 lawfully present noncitizen enrollees are expected to lose federal premium tax credits on Jan. 1.

Medicare.gov notes that people who switch to Original Medicare may need a separate drug plan, and that there are limits on when Medigap supplemental coverage can be added.