Georgia residents looking to get a head start on their 2026 health insurance coverage can now begin “window shopping” for plans on the state’s official marketplace, Georgia Access, starting Wednesday, October 1st. While browsing is open, it’s important to note that actual enrollment for 2026 plans will not begin until November 1, 2025.

This early access period offers Georgians a valuable opportunity to explore and compare various Affordable Care Act (ACA)-compliant health insurance plans available for the upcoming year without the pressure of an immediate enrollment deadline. Residents can review plan details, understand potential costs, and compare benefits to make informed decisions once the official Open Enrollment Period begins next month.

Key Dates for 2026 Health Coverage on Georgia Access:

  • October 1, 2025: The “window shopping” period is underway. Residents can explore and compare available health insurance plans for 2026 on Georgia Access. This is a browse-only period; no enrollment can be completed.
  • November 1, 2025: The official Open Enrollment Period begins. Starting this date, eligible Georgians can actively shop for, select, and enroll in a health plan for 2026. Financial assistance, if applicable, can also be applied for during this time.
  • January 15, 2026: The Open Enrollment Period officially closes. This is the last day for residents to enroll in a 2026 health plan through Georgia Access for coverage starting February 1, 2026.

What is Georgia Access?

Georgia Access is the state’s dedicated online marketplace, acting as the central hub for finding and enrolling in health insurance plans that meet the standards of the Affordable Care Act. It’s designed to provide a streamlined, user-friendly experience for Georgians seeking comprehensive health coverage. Through the platform, individuals and families can compare plans from various insurers, determine eligibility for financial subsidies that can lower monthly premiums, and complete their enrollment online.

Eligibility for Georgia Access Plans:

To be eligible to purchase a Qualified Health Plan (QHP) through Georgia Access, individuals must be a resident of Georgia. Additionally, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, national, or lawfully present immigrant.

State officials encourage all eligible residents, especially those without current health insurance or those considering changing their existing plans, to take advantage of this early browsing period. Understanding the available options now can help ensure a smooth enrollment process once policies become available for purchase in November.

For more information and to begin browsing plans, residents should visit the official Georgia Access website: https://georgiaaccess.gov/