How Do You Buy Health Insurance May 2026

Buying health insurance is a multi-step process that involves assessing your medical needs, understanding various plan structures, and enrolling during specific windows of time. For 2026 coverage, most individuals can purchase insurance during the , which typically runs from November 1, 2025, to January 15, 2026 . 1. Identify Your Enrollment Window

You can buy directly from companies like Anthem or Cigna off-exchange, though these plans are not eligible for federal subsidies. how do you buy health insurance

A window outside of Open Enrollment triggered by "qualifying life events," such as getting married, having a baby, or losing existing coverage . 2. Choose Where to Shop Buying health insurance is a multi-step process that

Most Americans get insurance through their job, where the employer typically pays a portion of the premium. 3. Compare Plan Types Identify Your Enrollment Window You can buy directly

You can generally only buy health insurance during two specific times: