Delaware Opens 2026 Health Insurance Marketplace Enrollment with Enhanced Support

Delaware has commenced the 13th annual open enrollment period for its Health Insurance Marketplace, running through January 15, 2026. Coverage for those enrolling and paying the first premium by December 15 will begin on January 1, 2026. Residents can renew existing plans or sign up for new coverage through HealthCare.gov, with additional support available at CuidadodeSalud.gov. Enrollment outside this window is restricted to special qualifying circumstances such as loss of coverage or changes in life status. For the 2026 plan year, the Marketplace offers 40 plans across bronze, silver, gold, platinum, and catastrophic metal tiers. These categories reflect varying cost-sharing between insurers and enrolled individuals; for instance, silver plans cover approximately 70% of medical costs. Consumers choosing silver plans may be eligible for further cost reductions via savings on deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. All plans comply with essential health benefits requirements, including coverage for pre-existing conditions, outpatient and emergency services, hospitalization, prescriptions, mental health and substance use disorder treatments, laboratory services, pediatric care, contraception, and breastfeeding support. Importantly, plans cannot be cancelled due to changes in health status. Delaware Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro emphasized ongoing efforts to maintain affordable, high-quality coverage amid federal premium increases, noting the Marketplace remains competitive despite these challenges. Navarro also advised consumers to utilize official state navigators or verified insurance brokers for enrollment assistance to avoid deceptive sales practices. The Delaware Department of Insurance has observed a rise in predatory actions during enrollment, including unauthorized sign-ups and aggressive marketing of non-comprehensive coverage through lead generators. The department provides a Smart Buyer’s Guide designed to help consumers verify legitimate agents and understand coverage comprehensiveness. Free in-person enrollment assistance is available statewide through federally funded specialists at Westside Family Healthcare locations. Additionally, state-licensed brokers and agents offer enrollment and employer coverage update support at no additional cost. Delaware Health and Social Services Secretary Christen Linke Young reaffirmed the state's commitment to ensuring access to affordable health insurance, encouraging residents to review plans on HealthCare.gov and engage trained navigators for guidance. Enrollment is also accessible by calling a dedicated helpline, and residents can stay informed of related updates by subscribing to Delaware’s state agency news releases.