5 Things to Know: Pennie Open Enrollment

October 26, 2026

Pennie’s open enrollment period begins November 1, and affordability continues to be a key focus area for Pennsylvanians seeking health insurance coverage.

Here are five things to know as Pennsylvanians prepare to select health insurance plans for 2027.

1. Affordability Remains a Major Concern

Pennie’s latest data show that 406,984 people were enrolled in coverage as of October 1, 2026. Since the end of the 2026 open enrollment period on January 31, approximately 130,000 enrollees have dropped their coverage.

The figures underscore the ongoing affordability challenges facing Pennsylvanians who purchase insurance through the state marketplace.

2. The Loss of Enhanced Tax Credits Has Increased Costs

Enhanced federal premium tax credits expired at the end of 2025, eliminating approximately $600 million in annual assistance for Pennsylvanians. Without the additional assistance, Pennie enrollees faced an average 102 percent increase in premiums to maintain their plans for 2026.

Pennie has identified rising costs as a primary reason consumers have dropped coverage, raising concerns about the number of Pennsylvanians who may become uninsured.

3. Premiums are Increasing Again

The Pennsylvania Insurance Department approved an average premium increase of 15.97 percent for individual-market plans in 2027. Small-group market premiums will increase by an average of 10.28 percent. Actual increases will vary by plan, insurer and region.

“Don’t assume you can’t afford coverage when it only takes a few minutes to check if you qualify for savings,” said Devon Trolley, Pennie executive director, in a statement. “Open Enrollment is the crucial time to ensure you and your family are protected from emergency costs and connected to medical care when you need it in 2027.”

4. Take Action for Coverage that Starts in January

Pennie’s 2027 open enrollment period begins November 1 and runs through January 15, 2027. Consumers must enroll by December 15 for coverage beginning January 1.

If you have Pennie coverage, be sure to update your income, household size, and contact information. Penalties for inaccurate income reporting have increased, “making it more important than ever for enrollees to keep their Pennie account up to date,” state officials said.

5. Help is Available during Open Enrollment

Individuals and families should compare available plans, review premiums and out-of-pocket costs, and check eligibility for financial assistance. Free enrollment assistance is available through Pennie.

Visit Pennie or call 844-844-8040 to explore coverage options and get help enrolling.

Additional information about Pennie’s affordability data and the State Health Insurance Exchange Affordability Program is available online.