TDCI Shares Consumer Guidance Before the 2026-27 ACA Marketplace Enrollment Period

NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) is reminding Tennesseans who may buy or switch individual health coverage on the Federally Facilitated Marketplace (FFM) for 2027 that Open Enrollment runs from Sunday, November 1, 2026, through Friday, January 15, 2027.

The department encourages consumers who purchase coverage through the FFM to start reviewing their options early so they do not miss important deadlines. After Open Enrollment ends in January, people can generally enroll in a health plan only after a qualifying life event.

• November 1, 2026: Open Enrollment begins. Consumers may enroll in, renew, or change FFM plans starting on this date.
• December 15, 2026: Final day to enroll in or change plans for coverage that begins January 1, 2027.
• January 15, 2027: Open Enrollment closes. This is the last day to enroll in or change Marketplace plans for the year, with coverage starting February 1, 2027.

By visiting Healthcare.gov, Tennesseans can look for ACA-compliant products in the individual and small-group markets across Tennessee’s eight rating areas.

TDCI uses contracted actuaries to conduct a comprehensive rate review to make sure rates are actuarially justified and are not excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory under Tenn. Code Ann. § 56-5-103. Rates are developed using sound actuarial principles and in line with Actuarial Standards of Practice (ASOP), along with the professional judgment of the certifying actuary. Any assumptions, trends, explanations, and other factors supporting the rates are also prepared using methods consistent with those standards.

The State of Tennessee works with CMS to address any concerns identified during its rate review.

All rates remain subject to change based on requirements from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

During Open Enrollment, Tennesseans may call 1-800-318-2596 or visit Healthcare.gov for enrollment information and help estimating available tax credits.

Before choosing a plan, TDCI recommends that consumers keep these tips in mind:

• Review plans carefully while shopping on the FFM during Open Enrollment.
• Ask questions and contact insurance carriers about their plans.
• Compare premiums, deductibles, copays, and other cost-sharing details. Also check each carrier’s network to see whether preferred or convenient providers and hospitals are included.
• Contact providers directly to confirm they are in-network with your health plan.

Consumers have several resources available to them. The federal government offers educational information at Healthcare.gov. Consumers may also speak with Navigators, who are trained to provide free, unbiased enrollment guidance. In addition, consumers can consult a properly licensed insurance agent or contact Consumer Insurance Services at (615) 741-2218 with specific questions about rate increases.

About the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance

Protecting Tennesseans, empowering professionals. The department’s divisions include the State Fire Marshal’s Office, Insurance, Securities, Regulatory Boards, the Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy, the Tennessee Emergency Communications Board, and TennCare Oversight.