How to Prepare for ACA Open Enrollment (OEP)

Cynthia Macluskie • September 5, 2025

How to Prepare for ACA Open Enrollment (OEP)

The Open Enrollment Period (OEP) for ACA (Affordable Care Act) health insurance runs from November 1 to January 15. This is your window to enroll in a new plan, renew your current one, or make changes to better fit your needs for 2026.


Here’s how to get ready:


1. Review Your Current Coverage

Take a moment to think about how your plan worked for you this year. Were your doctors in-network? Did your prescriptions cost more than expected? Make a list of what worked — and what didn’t.


2. Update Your Information

We will need the following:

  • A list of your current prescriptions (with dosage)
  • Names of your doctors and specialists
  • Preferred pharmacies


This helps us match you with the best plans available.


3. Watch for Your ANOC

If you’re currently enrolled in a plan, your carrier will send you an Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC) in late September. It outlines any changes in your coverage or costs. Don’t ignore it — these changes could affect your care in 2026.


4. Stay Alert for Scam Communications

OEP is a popular time for scammers to target consumers with misleading calls, emails, and ads. If something seems off, check with your trusted agent before responding.


5. Be Ready to Schedule Your Appointment

We’ll begin sending notices soon to schedule an appointment to review your coverage.  Appointments can start after October 1.  Keep an eye out for communications from us so we can help you review your options and find the best fit.


Need help or have questions?

We’re here to guide you through the process and make sure you’re confident in your 2026 coverage. Give us a call!

A family walks across a green lawn near a wooden food cart and tropical palm trees on a bright day.
April 22, 2026
Learn how travel medical insurance can help cover emergency care, hospital stays, and evacuation costs when your domestic health plan may not protect you overseas.
A red pen rests on a white envelope marked
April 15, 2026
Unexpected medical bills are common. Learn seven simple tips to understand your health insurance, avoid costly surprises, and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Two medical professionals in light blue scrubs stand behind a reception desk, one holding a tablet and one leaning forward.
April 8, 2026
Learn how to use Medicare’s Care Compare tool to evaluate hospital quality, star ratings, patient experience, and performance data to choose the best care near you.
A person wearing a light green jacket sneezes into their elbow while working on a laptop at a table.
April 1, 2026
Spring allergies can bring sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes. Learn simple steps to reduce pollen exposure, manage symptoms, and make allergy season easier.
Woman in denim shirt looks at papers while sitting at a table with laptop in front of wooden wall.
March 25, 2026
Have an ACA Marketplace plan? Learn how Form 1095-A, premium tax credit reconciliation, and life changes affect your tax return, and how to avoid costly repayment surprises.
Show More

Share

A family walks across a green lawn near a wooden food cart and tropical palm trees on a bright day.
April 22, 2026
Learn how travel medical insurance can help cover emergency care, hospital stays, and evacuation costs when your domestic health plan may not protect you overseas.
A red pen rests on a white envelope marked
April 15, 2026
Unexpected medical bills are common. Learn seven simple tips to understand your health insurance, avoid costly surprises, and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Two medical professionals in light blue scrubs stand behind a reception desk, one holding a tablet and one leaning forward.
April 8, 2026
Learn how to use Medicare’s Care Compare tool to evaluate hospital quality, star ratings, patient experience, and performance data to choose the best care near you.
A person wearing a light green jacket sneezes into their elbow while working on a laptop at a table.
April 1, 2026
Spring allergies can bring sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes. Learn simple steps to reduce pollen exposure, manage symptoms, and make allergy season easier.
Woman in denim shirt looks at papers while sitting at a table with laptop in front of wooden wall.
March 25, 2026
Have an ACA Marketplace plan? Learn how Form 1095-A, premium tax credit reconciliation, and life changes affect your tax return, and how to avoid costly repayment surprises.
Man having an eye exam with a slit lamp machine, a bright blue light on his eye.
March 18, 2026
Half of people with glaucoma don’t know they have it. Learn why early detection is critical, who qualifies for Medicare-covered screenings, and how to protect your vision.
Person offering pills to someone in bed; bedside table with a cup.
By Cynthia Macluskie Insurance March 11, 2026
Medicare extended Hospital-at-Home through Sept. 30, 2030 and telehealth flexibilities through Dec. 31, 2027. See what it means for patients.
Tax forms with a sticky note that says
By Cynthia Macluskie Insurance March 6, 2026
Learn how IRMAA affects your 2026 Medicare Part B and Part D premiums, 2024 income thresholds, tax strategies to reduce surcharges, and how to file an appeal if your income drops.
Man in hospital gown sits on bed, looking somber. Hospital room with medical equipment and clock.
By Cynthia Macluskie February 25, 2026
See how a High Deductible Health Plan works during a real medical crisis—and what one cancer scare cost out of pocket.
Dentist showing a device to a smiling patient in a dental office. The dentist wears a mask and gloves.
By Cynthia Macluskie February 18, 2026
Diabetes and oral health are closely linked. Learn how dental coverage can help protect your health, manage costs, and prevent complications.
Show More