This is the same list we walk through with clients. Marketplace open enrollment for 2027 coverage starts November 1, 2026, and the end date has been changing, so check HealthCare.gov for the current cutoff. Don't wait for the last day.
Before you shop
- Everyone who needs coverage: names, birth dates, and who files taxes together
- Your best estimate of 2027 income for the household (net income if you're self-employed)
- A list of your doctors, specialists and your preferred hospital
- Your prescriptions: name, dose and how often you fill them
- Your current plan details and your renewal notice, if you have one
- Photo ID, Social Security numbers or immigration documents for people applying
When you compare plans
- Monthly premium, after any premium help
- Deductible and out-of-pocket maximum
- Copays or coinsurance for visits, specialists, urgent care and the ER
- Whether each of your doctors and your hospital is in the plan's network
- Whether each prescription is covered and what tier it's in
- What the plan excludes or limits (conditions you already have, maternity, mental health)
Before you enroll
- Confirm the date your coverage starts
- Confirm when the first payment is due and how to pay it
- Check that your income estimate is realistic, and plan to update it if it changes
- Ask for the plan details and exclusions in writing
After you enroll
- Save your confirmation and plan documents
- Look for your ID cards and set up your online account
- Call your doctors to confirm they accept the plan
- Put your income update and renewal dates on your calendar
Related guides: 2027 open enrollment in Florida, how to compare quotes, and how to check a doctor's network.
This article is general information, not a guarantee of coverage or pricing. Plan availability, benefits, and eligibility vary by state and individual. Some private plans are medically underwritten and do not include all ACA essential health benefits.