2026 ACA Open Enrollment in Texas: Dates, Subsidies, and What's New
Published January 5, 2026 · By Joseph Stevens
Key 2026 Open Enrollment dates for Texas
- November 1, 2025 — Open Enrollment opens on HealthCare.gov
- December 15, 2025 — Deadline for coverage starting January 1, 2026
- January 15, 2026 — Final deadline for any 2026 ACA coverage (starts Feb 1, 2026)
- After Jan 15 — Special Enrollment Period only (job loss, marriage, baby, move, etc.)
What's actually new in 2026
Premiums are rising in most Texas counties, but the federal subsidy structure carried over from the Inflation Reduction Act remains intact for 2026 — including the 8.5%-of-income cap on the benchmark Silver plan.
- Subsidy cap still 8.5% of MAGI for the benchmark Silver plan
- More Texas counties have 4+ carrier choice (BCBSTX, Ambetter, Oscar, Aetna, UHC)
- Auto-renewal pulls forward — review your plan before December 15 to avoid surprise increases
How to enroll without missing the deadline
- Estimate your 2026 household income (MAGI). Use our subsidy calculator.
- Confirm your doctors and prescriptions on each plan's network.
- Pick the right metal level — Silver for subsidies + cost-sharing reductions; Bronze for healthy enrollees.
- Enroll through HealthCare.gov with TXInsurance.com as your agent of record (no extra cost).
FAQs
Can I still get an ACA subsidy in Texas if I earn over $100,000?
Yes — through 2026 the 400%-FPL income cliff is removed. If the benchmark Silver plan would cost more than 8.5% of your household income, you receive a premium tax credit for the difference.
What happens if I miss January 15?
You can only enroll outside that window if you have a qualifying life event — job loss, marriage, divorce, a new baby, or moving to a new ZIP code. Otherwise the next opportunity is Open Enrollment November 1, 2026.
Do I need to re-enroll every year?
HealthCare.gov auto-renews, but plan benefits and prices change yearly. Review your plan every November to make sure it's still the best fit.
Need help applying this to your situation?
Free, no-pressure call with a licensed Texas agent.