November Agency Insights
November Insights: Open Enrollment, Medicare & Eliminating Confusion
November marks a season of change – cooler weather, cozy meals, and one of the most important times of the year for your health coverage. Whether you’re reviewing your Marketplace plan or exploring Medicare options, our team at Insurance Benefit Navigators is here to help you make sense of it all.
It’s Open Enrollment Season!
Open Enrollment for 2026 Health Insurance runs from November 1 through January 15. This is the annual opportunity for individuals and families to enroll in, renew, or change their Marketplace (ACA) health insurance plan for the upcoming year.
Even if you already have coverage, it’s worth reviewing your plan — premiums, subsidies, and out-of-pocket costs can change from year to year. That’s where we come in. Our agents help you compare options, review your options, and make sure you’re getting the most value for your money.
If you’re near our local office, we’d love to meet in person! But if you’re located anywhere else, our licensed agents can assist you just as easily over the phone or by virtual appointment.
Medicare AEP: Still Going Strong
It’s also Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) — from October 15 through December 7.
This is the time for Medicare beneficiaries to:
- Switch between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare
- Review or change their Part D Prescription Drug Plan
- Ensure their doctors, pharmacies, and prescriptions are still covered for 2026
Even small changes to your plan can impact your coverage or costs, so let our team help you review your options and make confident choices.
Top 5 Health Insurance Changes for 2026
1️⃣ Premiums May Go Up for Many Plans
Health insurance companies are expecting to raise rates for 2026 — in some cases by 10–20%. This doesn’t mean everyone will see that increase, but it’s a good reminder to review your plan early during Open Enrollment. We can help you compare options and make sure you’re not overpaying.
2️⃣ Some Subsidies (Tax Credits) May Change
The extra savings many people have received in the past few — are scheduled to end after 2025 unless new laws extend them. That means your monthly premium could change, even if you keep the same plan. We’ll help you check your income information and make sure you’re getting every dollar of savings you qualify for.
3️⃣ Out-of-Pocket Costs Are Increasing
The maximum amount you can pay in a year for things like deductibles and copays will go up again in 2026. If you use your insurance often or have ongoing prescriptions, it’s important to look closely at those limits. We’ll help you understand what those numbers mean for your total yearly costs — not just your monthly premium.
4️⃣ You Might Be Eligible for an HSA (Health Savings Account)
More Marketplace plans will work with an HSA in 2026. These accounts let you set aside pre-tax money to pay for medical expenses — kind of like a “health piggy bank.” It’s a smart option for people who want more control over their healthcare spending or who rarely visit the doctor.
5️⃣ Open Enrollment Is Short — Don’t Wait!
Open Enrollment for 2026 coverage runs from November 1, 2025 to January 15, 2026. It always sneaks up fast, especially around the holidays. The sooner you review your plan, the more time we’ll have to find coverage that fits your needs and budget.
Fun November Facts
- Thanksgiving lands on November 27 this year!
- November is National Gratitude Month — a great time to focus on what’s going right.
- It’s also Diabetes Awareness Month, reminding us to stay active and make mindful food choices before the holidays hit.
- Fun fact: Cranberries bounce when they’re fresh — that’s how farmers test them!
Cooking with Candace—Healthy Fall Recipe: Roasted Veggie & Quinoa Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing
A cozy and colorful way to get your veggies in this fall — hearty enough for lunch, light enough for dinner.
🛒 Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 sweet potato, cubed
- ½ red onion, chopped
- 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
👩🍳 Directions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Toss zucchini, sweet potato, onion, and Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25 minutes.
- Whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar to make the dressing.
- Combine roasted veggies with cooked farro and drizzle with dressing before serving warm or chilled.
✅ Pro tip: Top with toasted pecans or dried cranberries for an extra festive touch!
We’re Here to Help You Every Step of the Way
Whether you’re exploring Marketplace coverage or reviewing your Medicare plan, Insurance Benefit Navigators is here to make things simple. Our mission is to take the confusion out of coverage — one conversation at a time.
Call us today or visit www.joinibn.com to schedule your appointment — in person, over the phone, or online. Let’s make this fall your healthiest, happiest season yet!