A Big Year for Health Coverage
Open Enrollment for 2026 coverage is coming soon, and this year brings some important federal changes that could affect what you pay and what your plan covers. Even though Oregon has strong state protections, the federal changes may still impact your monthly costs and the way you enroll through the Marketplace.
Here's what's changing — and what you can do to get ready.
Key Changes for 2026
Enhanced premium tax credits are ending
The temporary increase in financial help (called “enhanced premium tax credits") is set to end this year unless Congress extends it.
That means many people will see a smaller subsidy and a higher monthly premium, even if their income and plan stay the same. It's especially important this year to log in, update your application, and compare plans—you might find a new plan that fits your budget better.
Coverage for gender-affirming care
Starting in 2026, federal rules will no longer require Marketplace plans to cover gender-affirming care as an essential health benefit.
Oregon residents won't lose this coverage.
Oregon law still requires health plans to cover medically necessary gender-affirming care. That state protection stays in place regardless of federal changes.
All Bronze plans now qualify for Health Savings Accounts
In 2026, all Bronze plans will be considered high-deductible health plans (HDHPs). This means you can use a Health Savings Account (HSA) with these plans, even if they offer pre-deductible benefits, like the three $5 office visits available on all Standard Bronze plans.
An HSA lets you set aside money before taxes to pay for things like doctor visits, prescriptions, or other medical costs. It's one way to help manage higher deductibles or out-of-pocket expenses.
Rules and court cases still in progress
Some new federal Marketplace rules are currently under review in court. This could affect how certain enrollment rules are applied, like documentation or eligibility checks.
What does that mean for you?
Stay tuned to official sources like OregonHealthCare.gov for updates—so you always have the most accurate information before you enroll.
What These Key Changes May Mean for You
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Premiums may go up. Without extra federal help, your monthly costs could be higher.
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Coverage could feel less affordable. Taking time to review and compare plans can help you stay covered – be sure to compare all networks, explore different metal tiers and compare insurance companies to find the best value available.
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Active enrollment matters. Don't let your plan auto-renew without checking your options.
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Stay organized. File your taxes, keep your income information up to date, and have documentation ready if asked for verification.
This year, taking a few extra minutes to compare plans that could save you hundreds of dollars.
How to Prepare for Open Enrollment
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Check your income and household information.
Make sure your Marketplace account on HealthCare.gov reflects your current situation. Update anything that's changed since last year. -
Compare plans early.
Open Enrollment for 2026 coverage runs November 1, 2025, through January 15, 2026. You can preview plans and prices now using the
Marketplace Window Shopping tool. -
Get free local help.
Marketplace-trained experts can help you apply, update your information, and compare plans at no cost. Find someone near you using our
Find Local Help tool. -
Watch for proof requests.
If HealthCare.gov asks you to verify your income or eligibility, respond quickly so your coverage isn't delayed. -
Know your state protections.
Oregon continues to require coverage for essential services like gender-affirming care and offers resources to help you stay insured. If you have concerns about your coverage, reach out to
Division of Financial Regulation's Consumer Advocates.
The Bottom Line
The 2026 Open Enrollment period will look different from past years. Some enhanced federal support is ending, and other rules are shifting—but there's still plenty of local help available to make sure you stay covered.
Don't wait until the last minute.
Review your options, update your application, and get local help if you need it. For more information and assistance: