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The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is encouraging Michiganders to prepare now for the upcoming Open Enrollment period.
Nearly 497,000 Michigan residents are currently enrolled in health insurance through HealthCare.gov. With recent federal changes leading to higher health insurance costs, it is especially important for consumers to plan ahead, whether they intend to enroll in a new plan during Open Enrollment or reenroll in their existing coverage, DIFS advised.
"With the November 1 start of Open Enrollment approaching, now is the best time for Michiganders to prepare so they can make timely and informed decisions about their 2027 health insurance coverage," DIFS Director Anita Fox said in a news release. "By gathering documents early, previewing plans with HealthCare.gov's window‑shopping tool beginning in mid‑October, and reviewing last year's coverage, consumers can be prepared and choose the plan that best meets their needs and budget."
To get prepared --
-- Gather essential documents before Nov. 1: Social Security numbers or immigration documents; proof of income for tax credit eligibility, such as a recent tax return or pay stubs; information on your current health plan, if applicable; government-issued IDs; and lists of doctors and prescriptions.
-- Mark important dates: The Health Insurance Marketplace Open Enrollment period for 2027 coverage will run from Nov. 1 through Jan. 15. Consumers who want their coverage to begin on Jan. 1 must enroll in a plan no later than Dec. 15. Individuals who enroll between Dec. 16 and Jan. 15 will receive coverage beginning Feb. 1.
-- Check your mail: Consumers should watch for communications from their health insurer or the Marketplace, as these may contain important information about upcoming changes to their existing plan. It is always very important to verify the legitimacy of any communication you receive before providing any information to the requester.
-- Window shopping: Starting earlier this month, Michiganders can take advantage of HealthCare.gov's window‑shopping feature to preview plans and costs before enrollment begins on Nov. 1 without having to enter your name. Window shopping allows consumers to compare coverage options, assess updated premiums and subsidies, and understand changes in plan networks or benefits, helping them avoid unexpected costs and make informed decisions about their 2027 coverage.
-- Review this year's coverage and costs: Check your out-of-pocket spending and number of doctor's visits, including any specialty care, from this year to help you evaluate coverage options for 2027. Take note of any upcoming medical needs or life changes, such as new prescriptions or expected family changes, to ensure your plan meets your upcoming needs.
-- Be careful online: When shopping for Marketplace health insurance online, remember not every website is part of HealthCare.gov. Some websites are operated by "lead generators," which are businesses that collect personal information and then sell or share it with insurance marketers who may contact you with offers. These sites can look official, but they may be selling health insurance plans that offer limited benefits or don't qualify for financial help.
To stay safe, always begin at HealthCare.gov. A .gov address means you're on an official U.S. government website, and a lock icon or https:// in the address bar shows your connection is secure. Using trusted sites helps ensure you get accurate information, the right savings, and a plan that best fits your needs.
-- Seek help from experts: If you need help purchasing health insurance, you can seek free and local assistance from a federally trained navigator or certified application counselor by visiting HealthCare.gov or 800-318-2596.
Consumers with questions or other concerns about health insurance are encouraged to contact DIFS from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern time Monday through Friday at 877-999-6442 or go online to Michigan.gov/DIFS.