ΣBenefitMath
Dots show who sets the rules:FederalOR & WAFederal + state
Guide4 min read · Updated November 4, 2026
Open Enrollment 2027 in Oregon and Washington
Marketplace plans have a sign-up season. OHP and Apple Health don't. Here's what to do and when.
At a glance
Nov 1Open enrollment starts
Dec 15Sign up by this date for coverage on Jan 1
Any timeApply for OHP or Apple Health
- Oregon has a new marketplace: Explore Health replaces HealthCare.gov on November 1, 2026.
- Washington stays on Washington Healthplanfinder.
- Prices changed. Compare plans instead of letting yours renew automatically.
1Key dates
| Date | What happens |
|---|
| Nov 1, 2026 | Open enrollment starts for 2027 plans |
| Dec 15, 2026 | Last day to sign up or switch for coverage starting January 1 |
| Jan 15, 2027 | Open enrollment ends. Plans picked after Dec 15 start February 1 |
These are the federal dates. Confirm on your state's marketplace, which can set its own.
2Oregon: Explore Health
- Shop at Explore Health starting November 1. It replaces HealthCare.gov for Oregon.
- Have a 2026 HealthCare.gov plan? You'll get renewal information first. Then sign in to Explore Health to update your application and choose a plan.
- Help: 855-268-3767 or info.marketplace@odhsoha.oregon.gov. Free local helpers are listed on the state's find-help page.
- OHP: apply any time at benefits.oregon.gov or 800-699-9075. OHP Bridge covers some adults earning a bit more.
3Washington: Healthplanfinder
- Shop at Washington Healthplanfinder. Help: 1-855-923-4633.
- Cascade Care Savings is Washington's own help with premiums, on top of the federal tax credit, for people who qualify.
- Apple Health: apply any time on Healthplanfinder. There's no enrollment season.
4What changed on cost
- The extra federal help from 2021 to 2025 has expired. Tax credits again stop above 400% of the poverty level, and many people pay more than before.
- Update your income when you renew. A lower estimate can mean more help now, but you'll settle up at tax time.
- Check that your doctors and prescriptions are covered before you switch plans.
5What a plan might cost: an example
A couple in Oregon expects to earn $52,000 in 2027. That's about 240% of the poverty level for two people.
- At that income, the 2027 rules expect them to pay about 8.3% of income toward the benchmark silver plan: roughly $359 a month.
- If the benchmark plan costs $1,100 a month for them, the tax credit covers the rest: about $741 a month.
- A cheaper plan costs them less than $359; a pricier one costs more.
Prices depend on your ages and county. Preview real prices on your state's marketplace, then put them in the calculator.
6Common questions
Can I sign up after January 15?
Only with a qualifying life event, like losing other coverage, moving, marriage or a new baby. You usually have 60 days after the event.
What if I do nothing?
Many people are renewed into the same or a similar plan, but your price and tax credit can change. Comparing plans usually saves money.
Do I need to report my income?
Yes. Your tax credit is based on your expected 2027 income. If it changes during the year, update it to avoid owing money at tax time.