- Division of Insurance
Open Enrollment is almost here! From November 1, 2025, through January 23, 2026, Massachusetts residents with individual coverage can enroll in or change their health insurance plans, with no special reason required. Outside of this window, changes are only allowed if you experience a qualifying life event (such as a job loss or divorce).
Massachusetts residents can purchase comprehensive individual health insurance:
- Directly from a licensed insurance carrier
- Through a licensed broker
- Via the Massachusetts Health Connector: www.MAhealthconnector.org. Please note that enhanced premium tax credits are currently set to expire at the end of 2025, unless Congress acts to extend them. Without renewal, residents who previously received these subsidies from the Connector could face higher premiums.
There are 8 licensed carriers approved to sell individual and small group health plans in Massachusetts. If investigating any options from other than the 8 carriers, it is important to look for disclaimers (usually in small print) that read “this is not insurance” or “does not meet Minimum Creditable Coverage” as these misleading websites or materials promote non-comprehensive plans that don’t meet Massachusetts standards and often do not provide the coverage you may need.
All comprehensive insured plans sold in Massachusetts include:
- Essential health benefits: emergency services, prescription drugs, hospitalization, mental health care, and more
- Free preventive services from in-network providers. Be sure to also check out this guidance regarding vaccinations: Division of Insurance Bulletin 2025-03 Vaccinations
- Coverage for pre-existing conditions
- Maternity and newborn care
Before enrolling in a health plan:
- Understand cost-sharing: Lower premiums often mean higher deductibles and co-pays
- Confirm your doctors and hospitals are in-network
- Learn the rules: Some plans may require prior authorization for certain treatments or medications (not needed for emergency care)
If you have questions about a plan’s legitimacy, contact the Division of Insurance’s Consumer Services Unit at (617) 521-7794 or CSSComplaints@mass.gov
For help enrolling through the Health Connector, call 1‑877‑MA‑ENROLL or visit www.MAhealthconnector.org
