BATON ROUGE, La. — Open Enrollment for 2026 health insurance started on November 1. This allows Louisiana residents to sign up for or change their plans in the federal Health Insurance Marketplace.
The Louisiana Department of Insurance (LDI) said anyone who signs up by Dec. 15 will have coverage starting Jan. 1, 2026. Those who enroll by the final deadline of Jan. 15 will start coverage on Feb. 1.
“Open Enrollment is the opportunity for every Louisiana citizen to make important decisions about their health insurance coverage for the coming year,” said Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple. “I encourage all residents to take the time to review their options and ensure they have the coverage they need.”
UnitedHealthcare delay and coverage changes
According to LDI, five insurance companies are offering marketplace plans in Louisiana:
- Ambetter Health of Louisiana.
- Amerihealth Caritas Louisiana.
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana.
- CHRISTUS Health Plan.
- UnitedHealthcare.
LDI said UnitedHealthcare won’t provide coverage in Jefferson, Orleans, Plaquemines, or St. Charles parishes. Residents with a UnitedHealthcare plan need to pick a new carrier by Dec. 15. If they don’t, HealthCare.gov will automatically enroll them in a similar plan.
UnitedHealthcare will continue to serve 60 parishes in Louisiana. However, its plans will be temporarily off HealthCare.gov until mid-November, the department said.
Tips for open enrollment
The Louisiana Department of Insurance recommends that residents:
- Review all options carefully: Plans and prices can change yearly. Recent federal changes have also impacted premiums.
- Meet deadlines: Enroll by Dec. 15 for coverage beginning Jan. 1 or enroll by Jan. 15 for coverage starting Feb. 1. Missing the deadline means you can only enroll later if you have a qualifying life change.
- Contact a licensed agent: An insurance agent can help you compare plans.
Written by: Trinity Velazquez
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