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Choose a new 2026 plan from another insurer

Open Enrollment begins November 1st. Now’s the time to explore your options and choose a new plan from a different insurance company.

Important message about planning for 2026 health coverage


Aetna CVS Health will no longer offer individual and family plans in 2026 and beyond. These are the types of health plans you can purchase on the health insurance marketplace under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

 


There’s no change to your current 2025 plan. As long as you continue paying your premium, your coverage will remain active through December 31, 2025.

What to consider as you choose new coverage for 2026

Important dates

October

Take time to review your health needs, connect with a broker if you have one, and preview plans on the marketplace before enrollment begins.*

November 1st

Open Enrollment starts. This is the first day you can enroll in a new health plan for 2026.

December 15th

Open Enrollment ends in most states.* This is the last day to enroll in a new health plan with coverage that will start on January 1st, 2026.

January 1st, 2026

2026 coverage with new carrier starts for those who enrolled in a new health plan by December 15th and paid their first premium.

Important dates

October

Take time to review your health needs, connect with a broker if you have one, and preview plans on the marketplace before enrollment begins.*

Important dates

November 1st

Open Enrollment starts. This is the first day you can enroll in a new health plan for 2026.

Important dates

December 15th

Open Enrollment ends in most states.* This is the last day to enroll in a new health plan with coverage that will start on January 1st, 2026.

Important dates

January 1st, 2026

2026 coverage with new carrier starts for those who enrolled in a new health plan by December 15th and paid their first premium.

 

If you don’t actively choose a new health plan with a different company, you may get enrolled in one automatically. But reviewing your options and selecting a plan yourself is the best way to make sure it fits your needs.

 

Key dates to know may vary by state. Visit HealthCare.gov for state specific dates.

How to enroll

 

If you work with a health insurance agent or broker, they can help you choose a new health insurance plan during Open Enrollment.


You can also visit HealthCare.gov to get started. There you can view available health insurance plans or find a link to your state’s marketplace.

Helpful tips to choose the right plan

 

Compare plans to save money and find a plan that best meets your needs and budget. To prepare, make sure you:
 

  • Know your needs: Make a list of your providers, prescriptions, and any regular care you require.
  • Check in-network coverage: Ensure your providers and pharmacies you use are in-network with any new plan you are interested in.
  • Review total costs: Compare premiums, deductibles, and max out-of-pocket expenses to make sure any new plan you choose fits your budget.
  • Ask for help: A broker can walk you through the enrollment process and help you find a new plan.

Transition of care

 

Choosing a new health insurance plan is important but so is making sure your care continues without disruption. If your provider isn’t in-network and you’re pregnant, are being actively treated for a chronic condition, or if you’re recovering from a major surgery or illness, you may be able to request a transition of care while you find a new provider that fits your needs. Contact your new insurance plan for details.

Easy ways to pay your monthly bill

Keep your plan active until the end of 2025

 

Paying your bill is your #1 to-do. If you miss a payment, your plan may be cancelled. 

 

  • Online

    You can pay your bill online with your credit or debit card.

  • In person

    Visit any CVS Pharmacy® store location* to pay with credit, debit or cash (up to $999). Be sure to bring the barcoded payment coupon from your bill.


    Find a CVS Pharmacy store

  • Phone

    Call us at 1-844-365-7373 (TTY: 711) and choose “1.” Have your credit or debit card handy.

  • Mail

    Send a check to the address on your monthly bill. Remember to include your payment coupon.

FAQs about transitioning to a new insurance provider

 
  • Here are some tips to set you up for success:

     

    1) Make sure the new plan you choose covers your current medication(s) and your preferred pharmacy is in network. If you’re on a critical prescription that’s not in network, some Affordable Care Act plans offer transition coverage to help you stay on track with your treatment. Contact your new insurance plan for details. 

     

    2) It’s also a good idea to refill your prescriptions before the end of the year. 

     

    3) For future refills, you’ll want to provide your pharmacy with your new 2026 insurance card to ensure a smooth transition. 

     

    4) If you would like to have your medication sent to you through mail order, please check with your new insurance plan to determine which mail order pharmacy is in network. A new script will need to be sent to the new mail order pharmacy.

  • You can still access your Aetna CVS Health member account for up to five years after your plan ends. While some features may be limited, you’ll still be able to view messages, account settings, and up to two years of claims. You can log in to your member account or register here

      

    If you receive subsidies, your tax forms will still come directly from the Federal Marketplace.

  • You’ll continue to receive your Explanation of Benefits (EOBs) and updates on your claims through the end of the year. If you’re registered on the Aetna member website, you can track everything there, too. 

      

    If there’s a question about a claim that isn’t resolved by year-end, don’t worry—our customer service team will be available in 2026 to help get it sorted out.

  • You can only switch plans now if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, which usually requires a major life event like moving or getting married, etc. 

      

    View more information on Special Enrollment here.

 

Questions? We’re here to help.

 

Chat with your virtual assistant


They can help you find doctors and claim info, check coverage details, look up your member ID and more. Available 24/7 on your member website.

Log in to chat

 

 

Get in touch with us


First, log in to our member support page for helpful tips and resources to make the most of your plan. Still need help? Our Member Services team is ready to assist you.

Contact us

 

 
 
 

Legal notices

Health plans are offered or underwritten or administered by Aetna Health of California Inc., Aetna Health Inc. (Florida), Aetna Health Inc. (Georgia), Aetna Life Insurance Company, Aetna Health of Utah Inc., Aetna Health Inc. (Pennsylvania), or Aetna Health Inc. (Texas) (Aetna). Aetna, CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic, LLC (which either operates or provides certain management support services to MinuteClinic-branded walk-in clinics) are part of the CVS Health® family of companies.

Providers are independent contractors and are not agents of Aetna. Provider participation may change without notice. Aetna does not provide care or guarantee access to health services. Information is accurate as of the production date; however, it is subject to change.

Health benefits and health insurance plans contain exclusions and limitations.