How to Sign Up for Healthcare.gov

Healthcare.gov is the official website for the Health Insurance Marketplace created under the Affordable Care Act. If you do not get health insurance through your employer, Medicare, or Medicaid, the Marketplace is where you shop for and enroll in a plan. Many people qualify for financial help (subsidies) that a lot lower the monthly cost.

Open Enrollment usually runs from November 1 through January 15 each year. You can enroll at other times if you have a qualifying life event such as losing coverage, getting married, having a baby, or moving.

Go to healthcare.gov and click "Get Coverage." Create an account with your name, email, and password. The application asks about your household size, income, and current insurance status. Based on your income, the system tells you if you qualify for premium tax credits, cost-sharing reductions, Medicaid, or CHIP.

After completing the application, you see a list of available plans organized into metal levels — Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Bronze has the lowest monthly premiums but highest costs when you use care. Silver plans often offer the best value because they qualify for extra cost-sharing reductions.

Compare plans carefully: monthly premium, deductible, copays, prescription coverage, and whether your doctors are in the network. Your coverage does not start until you pay your first premium.

If you need help choosing a plan, healthcare.gov has free in-person help. Click "Find Local Help" to locate a trained navigator near you.