Access Health CT, Connecticut’s health insurance marketplace, has announced a Special Enrollment Period aimed at eligible residents seeking health coverage with a new state subsidy. This initiative begins on February 1, 2026, providing individuals and families who meet specific income criteria an opportunity to enroll in health plans after the traditional Open Enrollment Period concludes on January 31, 2026.
Governor Ned Lamont emphasized the urgency of this enrollment window, stating, “Time is of the essence. If you need coverage, now is the moment to enroll.” The Special Enrollment Period differs from the Open Enrollment Period, which is set to close at the end of January. Currently, there is no defined end date for this new enrollment opportunity.
The need for this state-level intervention arises from the expiration of federal subsidies associated with the Affordable Care Act, which lapsed on December 31, 2025. Congress’s failure to renew these subsidies has resulted in significant increases in health insurance costs for millions nationwide, including several hundred thousand residents in Connecticut. In response to this situation, Lamont declared, “Connecticut will not let politics in Washington jeopardize the health and financial security of our residents.”
Access Health CT’s Chief Executive Officer, James Michel, highlighted that this Special Enrollment Period allows Connecticut residents the time necessary to consider their options and secure essential health coverage.
Eligible customers for this enrollment period 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 households will receive a state subsidy that replaces 100% of the expired federal enhanced premium tax credit amounts.
– Households with an annual income exceeding 400% and up to 500% of the Federal Poverty Level will receive a state subsidy to replace 50% of the expired federal enhanced premium tax credit amounts.
For customers who are already enrolled or plan to enroll in a health plan for 2026, a credit reflecting the state subsidy will be applied to their carrier bill. Access Health CT clarified that while the state subsidy amounts will not appear in their online system immediately, all eligible customers will receive a notification by mail outlining their subsidy amount.
Insurance companies will subsequently issue updated premium bills that incorporate the credit for the state subsidy amount.
Individuals needing assistance are encouraged to visit the Access Health CT website or call 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 service operates during the same hours on weekdays and from 09:00 to 14:45 on Saturdays.
This initiative marks a significant step by Connecticut to ensure its residents have access to affordable health care, mitigating the impacts of federal subsidy cuts and supporting the well-being of working families.
