Get ready to enroll in your 2026 individual and family healthcare plan with this guided checklist. Open enrollment takes place Nov. 1 through Jan. 15.
- Consider how much health insurance you and your family will need.
Make a list of your family’s current and anticipated healthcare needs for the coming year. This includes surgeries, medicines or frequent medical care.
- Understand the plans available
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) provides health insurance by making it possible for anyone, regardless of their current or previous health condition, to purchase health insurance. It mandates that all plans offered on the Marketplace include the same essential health benefits and preventive services. The plans include gold, silver and bronze options. Some health benefit plans are not governed by ACA rules and may not offer the same coverage.
- Check on your doctors
Check to see what insurance companies your doctors and other providers work with. Using a network doctor ensures your out-of-pocket costs are lowest when you seek medical care. Blue Cross BlueCare EPO plans give you access to high quality health insurance at our lowest premiums and include emergencies outside the network.
- Compare plans
Review plans available to you and research additional services the insurance company provides. Blue Cross offers its members additional services such as discounts and wellness programs.
- Balance the budget
Look for a plan that fits your budget and is the right balance between monthly premiums and the amount you’ll owe when you receive care. Depending on your income, you may receive assistance with monthly payments. Use our online calculator to see if you’re eligible at bcbcks.com/buyblue.
- Get ready to enroll
If you qualify to receive payment assistance, you get to enroll on the Marketplace at healthcare.gov. If you don’t qualify for financial help, you can enroll directly at bcbcks.com/buyblue. Be sure to have your important documents handy – see a list.
- Mark your calendar for the Open Enrollment Period (OEP)
The last week of October is usually the shopping window where you’ll get the first look at plans and premiums for the upcoming plan year. Open enrollment starts Nov. 1 and ends Jan. 15. Be sure to sign up during OEP because once it closes you can only enroll or change plans if you have certain life changes or qualify for Medicaid or Children’s Health Insurance Plans.
We know you may have questions and we’re here for you when you need us!
Find out if you can save money on your monthly premium with our financial aid calculator and review plans available at bcbsks.com/together. We’re available at 866-679-7824, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to assist you.