Your 2026 guide to health insurance enrollment: key dates, updates and support

Medicare Annual Enrollment

 

The Annual Enrollment Period is October 15, 2025, through December 7, 2025, with coverage going into effect on January 1, 2026.

It’s time to decide which Medicare option is best for you — to stay with your current Arkansas Blue Medicare plan, switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan, or return to Original Medicare. Arkansas Blue Medicare is here to help you live happy and healthy, your whole life long.

What’s most important when it comes to your health coverage?

Medicare Advantage plans give you the convenience of an all-in-one plan with budget-friendly, predictable out-of-pocket costs and additional benefits you don’t get with Original Medicare.

What makes our Medicare Advantage plans special?

• HMO plans with $0 monthly premiums, $0 primary care visits, and $0 copays
• Comprehensive dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drug coverage
• Personalized care from providers and hospitals you know and trust

If you’re about to turn 65, have current Medicare coverage, or have a loved one looking to switch, feel confident in what Blue has to offer. Your friends at Arkansas Blue Medicare are experienced, knowledgeable, and here to help!

 

Open Enrollment (OEP) for 2026 family and individual coverage begins November 1.

If you need an individual or family health insurance plan for next year, the open enrollment period (OEP) runs from November 1, 2025, to January 15, 2026. During OEP you can decide to keep or change your existing health insurance plan.

We’re here to help you find the best plan for your needs and budget.

 

Important Information for Your 2026 ACA Plan:

• Enhanced tax credits from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) are ending at the end of 2025. This means higher premiums for many in 2026.
• Great news! Certain ACA plans for 2026 will be HSA-compatible, offering you a tax-advantaged savings account to set aside pre-tax money for qualified medical expenses.

Starting next year, ID cards will no longer display the suitcase icon to indicate BlueCard access. To find care outside of Arkansas or confirm your BlueCard eligibility, call 800-810-2583 or visit https://provider.bcbs.com.

Wanting to make a change to your plan? Watch for your annual benefit update letter, which will explain your options in detail.