Colorado Health Insurance Enrollment Remains Steady for Plan Year 2026

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DENVER – Today is Get Covered Colorado Day, a day of action designed to encourage as many Coloradans as possible to enroll in 2026 health insurance during Connect for Health Colorado's annual open enrollment period.

"Colorado is stronger and healthier when every family has access to the care they need. In the face of rising premiums and the loss of federal enhanced premium tax credits, we've taken action. During the Special Session, I signed a law to combat high private insurance costs and launch Colorado Premium Assistance so more families can stay covered and it's working to keep people insured despite the federal difficulties. We'll keep fighting to save families money on health care. On Get Covered Colorado Day, I encourage everyone to review their options and choose the plan that works best for them," said Governor Jared Polis.

In August, during the Special Session convened to address the billion-dollar state budget deficit created by congressional Republicans' passage of H.R.1, Governor Polis worked with the legislature to pass HB25B-1006 to strengthen Colorado's reinsurance initiative and blunt premium hikes.

"Our message today is simple: we're here to help every Coloradan get covered," said Kevin Patterson, chief executive officer of Connect for Health Colorado, the state's official health insurance marketplace. "Even with premium increases and the possible expiration of federal enhanced Premium Tax Credits, Coloradans are finding plans that fit their needs and their budgets – and they're not doing it alone. Our experts are ready to guide customers every step of the way. We want Coloradans to know there's no better time than now to shop, compare options and take advantage of the support we have available."

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"Health coverage is one of the most powerful tools people have to protect their well-being, manage chronic conditions, and access the care that keeps them healthy," said Lt. Gov. Dianne Primavera. "Get Covered Colorado Day is about making sure every Coloradan has the information and support they need to stay insured. If you apply for coverage before December 15, you can avoid any gap in care and start the new year with the peace of mind that comes from being covered. Today is the perfect moment to visit Connect for Health Colorado, compare your options, and get the help you need to enroll."

As marketplace and state leaders emphasize the importance of health coverage, enrollment for plan year 2026 is down slightly from roughly the same time period last year, Connect for Health Colorado announced. Since Nov. 1, 210,139 residents have enrolled in a health insurance plan. That's about 5% fewer enrollments than roughly the same time period last year.

According to Connect for Health Colorado, a few factors may be contributing to the small dip in enrollment. Higher premiums and the possible expiration of enhanced federal Premium Tax Credits may be prompting people to take more time selecting a plan. Also, due to eligibility changes, fewer people were included in Connect for Health Colorado's annual auto-renewal process this year.

Connect for Health Colorado remains the only place where Coloradans can get financial help to purchase health insurance, and an estimated 65% of customers will qualify for financial help for plan year 2026. More than half – 58% – of customers who currently receive financial assistance will have at least one 2026 plan option with an estimated net premium under $10 per month.

Enrollment for 2026 coverage is open now through Jan. 15, 2026. Coloradans must enroll by Dec. 15 for coverage that starts Jan. 1. With the deadline fast approaching, customers are strongly encouraged to begin the application process as soon as possible to explore available health insurance plan options and financial assistance, and to avoid a lapse in coverage.

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Six insurance companies are offering medical plans in 2026, including Colorado Option plans that give customers access to many services at no-cost, including $0 for doctor visits for annual check-ups, health screenings, immunizations, maternity care, and mental or behavioral health or substance abuse services.

To make care more affordable, the state is also introducing Colorado Premium Assistance for households between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level, offering meaningful savings even as federal enhanced Premium Tax Credits are scheduled to expire. This support was created by HB25B-1006 - Improve Affordability Private Health Insurance, which Governor Polis signed earlier this year.

Connect for Health Colorado's free network of certified Assisters and insurance Brokers are located throughout Colorado and speak more than 22 languages. They can help Coloradans apply free of charge, and there's no obligation to buy a plan when contacting an expert.

An enhanced Estimate & Explore Tool lets customers compare medical and dental plans side-by-side – without needing to log in – and helps manage cost expectations before customers apply.

Those who need health care insurance are encouraged to learn more about open enrollment, plan options, and financial help at ConnectforHealthCO.com or by calling 855-752-6749.

About Connect for Health Colorado Connect for Health Colorado is the state's official health insurance marketplace. Its mission is to increase access, affordability and choice for individuals, families and small employers purchasing health insurance in Colorado. It is the only place where residents can qualify for and receive financial help for their health insurance.

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