Why Costs May Go Up
Several changes could affect your premium:
Expiration of enhanced tax credits
Since 2021, extra financial help has been available through enhanced tax credits — but this additional support is set to expire on December 31, 2025, unless Congress extends it.
Other factors that could affect costs
Even if tax credits continue, other things could change what you pay. Be aware of these potential developments that might affect you:
- A change in your income, family size, or tax filing status
- A new insurer entering your region
- Not filing and reconciling your federal taxes if you received tax credits
- Missing paperwork deadlines
Some financial help will still be available in 2026, but fewer people may qualify, and savings might be smaller. Our network of certified agents and navigators will be able to assist you in finding a health plan that fits your budget and your needs. You can find free support from a local agent or navigator below.
A Longer Open Enrollment Window
For the 2026 plan year, Open Enrollment will last from November 1, 2025, through January 30, 2026, giving you a full three months to review and select a plan. This is your opportunity to enroll or switch plans. If you miss Open Enrollment, you may be locked into your current plan or may need to go without coverage.
What You’ll Need to Enroll
Before signing up for a 2026 health plan, gather these documents for each adult you want to cover:
- Photo ID
- Social Security number
- Most recent tax return
- Pay stubs from the past four weeks
- Immigration documents (if applicable)
Don’t miss out: Set a reminder now and start comparing 2026 health plans as soon as they’re available around October 1.
What You Can Do Now
Here’s how to stay on top of the 2026 changes:
- Use your coverage: Your 2025 plan has not changed. You will still have access to covered essential benefits such as:
- Free annual wellness visits and immunizations
- Preventative screenings for cancer, diabetes, and more
- Prescriptions
- Update your Marketplace account: Report any life changes right away. Make sure your contact details, income level, and tax filing information are current and documented.
- Pay any outstanding premium balances: Make sure you are up to date on your premium payments.
- Watch your inbox: Updates and renewal letters start in September.
- Mark your calendar: Open Enrollment is November 1 – January 30.
Be Aware of Scams and Fraudulent Health Plans
To better inform consumers of federal changes, you may see increased communication from Virginia's Insurance Marketplace. Additionally, you might receive communication from people or institutions not affiliated with the Marketplace.
Official Marketplace communication beyond the platform inbox will come from the following:
- All Marketplace emails will come from VirginiaInsuranceMarketplace@public.govdelivery.com
- All Marketplace text messages will come from 833-229-8896
- All Marketplace calls will come from 888-687-1501 or 888-687-1502
- All Marketplace mail correspondence will come from our mail vendor at:
- Virginia's Insurance Marketplace
P.O. Box 428
Birmingham, AL 35201
- Virginia's Insurance Marketplace
If you are unsure about any communication that you have received, please contact the Consumer Assistance Center at 888-687-1501.
What the Marketplace is Doing for You
Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace is committed to helping you through these changes. We’re here to ensure that you continue to have access to affordable, high-quality health insurance.
Need help?
Whether you’re renewing a plan or enrolling for the first time, Virginia’s Insurance Marketplace is your trusted resource for coverage, cost savings, and support.
Visit our Help Center or call 888-687-1501 to connect with a certified assister for one-on-one support.