When is open enrollment in the District of Columbia for 2027?
In the District of Columbia, you sign up for 2027 coverage at DC Health Link, the District’s own Marketplace, not HealthCare.gov.
| Date | What happens |
|---|---|
| Nov. 1, 2026 | 2027 open enrollment starts |
| Dec. 15, 2026 | Last day to pick a plan that starts Jan. 1, 2027 |
| Jan. 31, 2027 | Open enrollment ends |
Plans picked from Dec. 16 to Jan. 15 start Feb. 1, and from Jan. 16 to 31 start March 1, 2027. Coverage Decider checked these dates against DC Health Link and CMS on Oct. 15, 2026. 2027 open enrollment dates lists every state’s deadlines.
Who qualifies for Medicaid in the District of Columbia?
The District of Columbia expanded Medicaid. Adults 19 to 64 qualify with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level: $22,025 a year for one person or $45,540 for a family of four, using the 2026 guidelines.
| Group | Income limit, share of the poverty line (KFF, January 2026) |
|---|---|
| Adults 19 to 64 | 138% |
| Children, through Medicaid or CHIP | 324% |
| Pregnancy | 324% |
- After a birth: The District of Columbia’s Medicaid covers 12 months of postpartum care.
- Every state’s limits: Medicaid income limits by state.
- In dollars for your household size: the 2027 federal poverty level chart.
Does the District of Columbia have Medicaid work requirements in 2027?
Yes. Starting Jan. 1, 2027, adults 19 to 64 covered through the District of Columbia’s Medicaid expansion must show 80 hours a month of work, school, job training or volunteering, or show they’re exempt, under the 2025 federal budget law (P.L. 119-21).
Medicaid work requirements in 2027 covers who’s exempt and how reporting works.
Does the District of Columbia help pay for coverage beyond the federal tax credit?
Yes. The Healthy DC Plan, a Basic Health Program, covers adults under 65 from 138% to 200% of the poverty line through DC Health Link, with a $0 premium and no cost sharing, according to healthinsurance.org. CMS lists it as operating in 2027.
Is there a penalty for going without health insurance in the District of Columbia?
Yes. The District of Columbia’s penalty for tax year 2025 was the greater of $795 per adult and $397.50 per child, up to $2,385, or 2.5% of income above the DC filing threshold, capped at the District’s average bronze premium, according to the DC Office of Tax and Revenue.
What will 2027 plans cost in the District of Columbia?
Compare 2027 plans and prices for the District of Columbia at DC Health Link. Above 400% of the poverty line there’s no federal tax credit in 2027: the 2027 subsidy cliff shows where it ends for your household size.
Where can you get free help enrolling in the District of Columbia?
DC Health Link, like every ACA Marketplace, funds free Navigators who help the District of Columbia residents apply. Find one through DC Health Link.