Open Enrollment for Medicare and Marketplace Insurance - Avoid the Scams

Health insurance scams occur year-round, though they increase during open enrollment. For 2027 plans starting on January 1st, open enrollment for Medicare begins October 15 and runs through December 7th. Open enrollment for Marketplace insurance starts November 1st and runs through December 15th.

 Be wary of calls offering to enroll you in insurance or additional benefits. Do not provide any personal information. Do not engage in conversation, simply hang up.

When searching online for a new plan, use these precautions:

• Never use the link or phone number listed in an ad.

• Avoid clicking on anything designated as an “Ad” or “Sponsored.” These are paid ads that often appear at the top of search results. Scroll down past these to the .gov websites.

• Do not use websites without .gov at the end of the site address. Scammers are good at making their websites look official, including logos. Always check the website address.

• Enter the name of the website directly into your website search engine.

  • Use Medicare.gov (or call 800-633-4277)

  • For Marketplace insurance use HealthCare.gov (or call 800-318-2596)

 Get help to compare costs, coverage, and plans. Your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) can assist with Medicare or utilize your local Senior Medicare Patrol. For additional help with ACA plans, visit HealthCare.gov and click “Find Local Help.”