HARTFORD, Conn. — Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont and state Insurance Commissioner Joshua Hershman urged residents to review their health insurance options and check for financial help during open enrollment on Access Health CT, the state's official health insurance marketplace.

Open enrollment began Oct. 23 and runs through Jan. 15, 2027. Residents can sign up for the first time, renew current plans, or compare options and switch for 2027. People who enroll by Dec. 15 will have coverage starting Jan. 1, 2027. Those who enroll from Dec. 16 through Jan. 15, 2027, will have coverage starting Feb. 1, 2027.

About 80% of Access Health CT customers receive some form of financial assistance, according to the governor's office. Aid includes federal advance premium tax credits, which lower monthly premiums, and Connecticut's Temporary Premium Assistance program, which helps eligible residents offset the loss of enhanced federal premium tax credits. The state said it is continuing that program in 2027. Plans bought outside the marketplace do not qualify for the assistance.

Starting in 2027, eligible early childhood educators and employees of licensed child care programs may receive an annual subsidy of $1,000 to $1,200 on top of other aid. The state is also offering tax incentives to small businesses that reimburse employees for health coverage they buy on their own through its CHOICE/ICHRA program.

"Don't compare plans based on the monthly premium alone," Hershman said. "Check whether your doctors are in-network, your prescriptions are covered, and what you'll pay in deductibles and other out-of-pocket costs."

Residents can enroll at AccessHealthCT.com, by calling 1-855-805-4325, or in person at enrollment sites and events. Free help is available from certified brokers, enrollment specialists, navigators and community partners.

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