Open Enrollment: what to do before the deadline

Open Enrollment happens each fall. It is the main window each year to choose a new individual or family health plan, or switch the one you have.

Before it starts, gather a few things: the doctors and prescriptions you want covered, a rough estimate of next year's household income, and your current plan's costs. Those three details make comparing plans much faster.

Look past the monthly premium. The deductible, out-of-pocket maximum and network matter just as much. A cheaper plan can cost more over a year if your doctors are out of network.

Missed the window? Life changes like marriage, a new baby, moving or losing other coverage may let you enroll sooner. If you are not sure whether yours counts, ask.