Access Health CT, the health insurance marketplace for Connecticut, has announced the introduction of a Special Enrollment Period starting on February 1, 2026. This new initiative will enable eligible residents to enroll in health coverage while benefiting from a state subsidy designed to alleviate rising insurance costs.
Governor Ned Lamont emphasized the urgency of this opportunity, stating, “Time is of the essence. If you need coverage, now is the moment to enroll.” This Special Enrollment Period is distinct from the standard Open Enrollment Period, which concludes on January 31, 2026. The duration of the Special Enrollment Period has yet to be determined.
The landscape of health insurance has shifted significantly since the expiration of federal subsidies for those enrolled in the Affordable Care Act on December 31, 2025. Following Congress’s failure to renew these subsidies for 2026, millions across the United States, including several hundred thousand in Connecticut, have faced substantial increases in their health insurance costs. In response, Governor Lamont asserted, “Connecticut will not let politics in Washington jeopardize the health and financial security of our residents.” He highlighted the state’s swift action to support the Covered CT Program, ensuring fully subsidized coverage for working families just above Medicaid eligibility and introducing a new state subsidy.
Eligibility for the Special Enrollment Period
The Special Enrollment Period allows Connecticut residents to make informed decisions regarding their health insurance options. James Michel, Chief Executive Officer of Access Health CT, noted the importance of this extension, stating it provides individuals with the necessary time to secure essential coverage for their health and well-being.
Eligible customers include households with an annual income between 100% and 200% of the Federal Poverty Level who are not already part of the Covered CT Program. These individuals will receive a state subsidy that replaces 100% of the expired federal enhanced premium tax credits. Additionally, households with an annual income exceeding 400% and up to 500% of the Federal Poverty Level will benefit from a state subsidy that replaces 50% of the expired federal credits.
For those who have already enrolled or intend to enroll in a health plan for 2026, Access Health CT officials confirmed that a credit will be reflected on their carrier bills.
Guidance and Support Available
Access Health CT has indicated that while the state subsidy amounts will not be visible in their online system until updates are completed in the coming weeks, all eligible customers will receive a notice in the mail detailing their state subsidy. Insurance companies will also provide updated premium bills that include the subsidy credit.
For assistance, customers can access resources on the Access Health CT website or call the customer service line at 1-855-805-4325 from Monday to Friday, between 08:00 and 17:00. For those who are deaf or hearing impaired, TTY services are available at 1-855-789-2428 or through a relay operator. A live chat option is also offered on weekdays from 08:00 to 18:45 and on Saturdays from 09:00 to 14:45.
This initiative reflects Connecticut’s commitment to ensuring that residents have access to affordable health care coverage, particularly in the context of changing federal policies and rising costs.
