5 Smart Moves to Make During Open Enrollment Week

Open Enrollment is officially here — and with it comes one of the most important decisions you’ll make all year: choosing your health insurance coverage for 2026.

But with so many plan options, premium levels, and confusing terms, it’s easy to rush through your enrollment and end up with unexpected bills later. Let’s make sure that doesn’t happen this year.

Here are 5 smart moves to make during Open Enrollment Week:

1️⃣ Know Your Deadlines

Open Enrollment runs from November 1 through January 15, but if you want your coverage to start January 1, 2026, your enrollment deadline is December 15, 2025.

Mark it on your calendar, set reminders, and aim to finish early — waiting until January can mean fewer plan options and higher stress.

2️⃣ Review What Changed in Your Current Plan

Even if you loved your coverage last year, your insurer may have updated:

• Doctor networks

• Drug formularies

• Deductibles or copay amounts

• Monthly premiums

  
  

Before you renew, make sure your preferred doctors, prescriptions, and hospitals are still covered.

3️⃣ Compare Total Costs, Not Just Premiums

That low-monthly-payment plan might look great — until you factor in your deductible and out-of-pocket maximum.

✅ A “cheap” plan with a $7,000 deductible might cost you far more than a balanced plan with a moderate premium and better coverage.

Use the Cost Calculator inside my Free 2025 Open Enrollment Survival Guide to see what you’ll really pay over a year.

4️⃣ Update Your Income Information

Subsidies and tax credits are based on your estimated annual income. If your income has changed, update it now to avoid paying more later or owing money at tax time.

This simple step can make the difference between affordable coverage and surprise costs.

5️⃣ Don’t Go It Alone

You don’t have to be an insurance expert to make a smart choice. As a licensed agent and RSSA®, Selena Witherspoon helps individuals and families compare plans, understand benefits, and avoid costly mistakes — at no cost to you.

📅 Schedule your free 1-on-1 consultation today.

Bonus: Get Your Free 2025 Open Enrollment Survival Guide

Inside you’ll find:

• Every deadline you need to know

• A 5-step plan comparison framework

• Real-cost calculator & red-flag checklist

• Plan worksheets to simplify decisions

  
  

👉 Download your free guide here: selenawitherspoon.com/open-enrollment-survival-guide

Final Thought

Every year, I get calls from people who missed a deadline, chose the wrong plan, or didn’t realize their doctor was out of network. This year, let’s make sure you’re not one of them.

Plan early. Ask questions. Enroll confidently.