The short answer
If you buy your own health coverage, don't let last year's plan roll forward without a fresh look. Open Enrollment is already open, and KFF reports that the average finalized benchmark silver premium for 2027 is up about 13% from this year. That is a second year in a row of double-digit increases. Your own bill, network and deductible can still change a lot from what you paid in 2026, so a quick comparison now beats a surprise in January. The figures are in KFF's rundown of what to watch for 2027 Open Enrollment.
Why this is showing up everywhere right now
Open Enrollment for 2027 coverage started November 1. On X and in the news, people who buy their own insurance are talking about higher monthly bills and what that means for self-employed households and families who don't get coverage through a job.
KFF's analysis of finalized rates puts the average benchmark silver increase at 13%. Insurers point to higher medical costs and to the end of the enhanced premium tax credits that expired after 2025. I'm not here to argue the policy. I care about what you do with your own application this month.
Your renewal letter is not the whole story
If you already have a Marketplace plan, HealthCare.gov may automatically re-enroll you for January 1 if you take no action by December 15. That keeps you covered, but it does not mean the plan, the price or the doctors look the same as last year.
Log in and compare. Check the premium shown on your application. Check the deductible and out-of-pocket maximum. Check whether your doctors and prescriptions still fit. My post on what to do with your 2027 Marketplace renewal letters walks through those notices in plain words.
The date that decides January 1
HealthCare.gov is clear on the calendar. Enroll or change by December 15 for coverage that starts January 1. Enroll between December 16 and January 15 and coverage generally starts February 1. Open Enrollment itself ends January 15. You can see the full list on the HealthCare.gov dates and deadlines page.
I keep the same dates in my post on Marketplace Open Enrollment for self-employed people. Treat December 15 as the real deadline if you want a January 1 start.
What I'd do this week if I were shopping for myself
Update your income estimate on the application so the numbers match where you actually are. For self-employed folks, that estimate is often the hardest part because earnings swing. Use your best honest guess for 2027, then update it later if things change.
Then compare at least one other plan next to the one you're in now. Look at total cost for a normal year and for a rough year, not just the monthly premium. If a plan's network or drug list doesn't fit your life, a slightly lower premium usually isn't worth it.
FAQ
How much are Marketplace premiums rising for 2027?
KFF says the average finalized benchmark silver premium is up about 13% for 2027, after a larger jump going into 2026.
Does a 13% increase mean my bill goes up by 13%?
Not necessarily. Your own change depends on your plan, your area and the numbers on your Marketplace application. Some people see a bigger change. Some see a smaller one.
How do I see what my 2027 costs look like?
Log in at HealthCare.gov, update your application and compare the plans shown for your household. The site is the place that calculates your own figures.
What happens if I do nothing by December 15?
HealthCare.gov may automatically re-enroll you in a plan for January 1 if you already have Marketplace coverage. You should still log in, because the plan or the price may have changed.
When does Open Enrollment end?
January 15, according to HealthCare.gov. After that, you generally need a qualifying life event for a Special Enrollment Period.