Today. Friday, December 5, is ‘Get Covered Colorado Day’, a day of action designed to encourage as many Coloradans as possible to enroll in 2026 health insurance during Connect for Health Colorado’s annual open enrollment period.
According to the 2025 Colorado Health Access Survey published by the Colorado Health Institute, 9.7% of residents in Archuleta, La Plata, Dolores, Montezuma and San Juan counties lacked health insurance coverage in 2025 compared to 5.9% of residents statewide.
“Our message today is simple: we’re here to help every Coloradan get covered,” said Kevin Patterson, chief executive officer of Connect for Health Colorado, the state’s official health insurance marketplace. “Even with premium increases and the possible expiration of federal enhanced Premium Tax Credits, Coloradans are finding plans that fit their needs and their budgets – and they’re not doing it alone. Our experts are ready to guide customers every step of the way. We want Coloradans to know there’s no better time than now to shop, compare options and take advantage of the support we have available.”
“Colorado is stronger and healthier when every family has access to the care they need,” said Governor Jared Polis. “In the face of rising premiums and the loss of federal Enhanced Premium Tax Credits, we’ve taken action. During the Special Session, I signed a law to combat high private insurance costs and launch Colorado Premium Assistance so more families can stay covered and it’s working to keep people insured despite the federal difficulties. We’ll keep fighting to save families money on health care. On Get Covered Colorado Day, I encourage everyone to review their options and choose the plan that works best for them.”
As marketplace and state leaders emphasize the importance of health coverage, enrollment for plan year 2026 is down slightly from roughly the same time period last year, Connect for Health Colorado announced. Since November 1st, 210,139 residents have enrolled in a health insurance plan through Connect for Health Colorado. That’s about 5% fewer enrollments than roughly the same time period last year.
According to Connect for Health Colorado, a few factors may be contributing to the small dip in enrollment. Higher premiums and the possible expiration of enhanced federal Premium Tax Credits may be prompting people to take more time selecting a plan. Also, due to eligibility changes, fewer people were included in Connect for Health Colorado’s annual auto-renewal process this year.
Connect for Health Colorado remains the only place where Coloradans can get financial help to purchase health insurance, and an estimated 65% of customers will qualify for financial help for plan year 2026. More than half – 58% – of customers who currently receive financial assistance will have at least one 2026 plan option with an estimated net premium under $10 per month.
The Estimate & Explore Tool allows customers to browse plans and see what financial help they may be eligible for. And, they can do this anonymously – without having to create an account. For the 2026 Plan Year, the average monthly net premium for Archuleta County residents enrolled in a Connect for Health Colorado plan is $156. Using the Estimate & Explore tool to shop and compare, customers who don’t qualify for financial assistance could save as much as $47 per month for a plan in the same metal tier. Those who receive financial assistance could save $22 per month for a comparable plan. On average, premiums for Archuleta County customers who receive financial assistance are 126% higher than in 2025; for those who don’t receive financial assistance premiums have increased by 30%.
“Health coverage is one of the most powerful tools people have to protect their well-being, manage chronic conditions, and access the care that keeps them healthy,” said Lt. Gov. Dianne Primavera. “Get Covered Colorado Day is about making sure every Coloradan has the information and support they need to stay insured. If you apply for coverage before December 15, you can avoid any gap in care and start the new year with the peace of mind that comes from being covered. Today is the perfect moment to visit Connect for Health Colorado, compare your options, and get the help you need to enroll.”
Enrollment for 2026 coverage is open now through January 15, 2026. Coloradans must enroll by December 15 for coverage that starts January 1. With the deadline fast approaching, customers are strongly encouraged to begin the application process as soon as possible to explore available health insurance plan options and financial assistance, and to avoid a lapse in coverage.
Six insurance companies are offering medical plans in 2026, including Colorado Option plans that give customers access to many services at no cost, including $0 for doctor visits for annual check-ups, health screenings, immunizations, maternity care, and mental or behavioral health or substance abuse services.
To make care more affordable, the state is also introducing Colorado Premium Assistance for households between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level, offering meaningful savings even as federal enhanced Premium Tax Credits are scheduled to expire. This support was created by HB25B-1006, which Governor Polis signed earlier this year. Connect for Health Colorado’s free network of certified Assisters and insurance Brokers are located throughout Colorado and speak more than 22 languages. They can help Coloradans apply free of charge, and there’s no obligation to buy a plan when contacting an expert.
Those who need health care insurance are encouraged to learn more about open enrollment, plan options, and financial help at ConnectforHealthCO.com or by calling 855-752-6749.
About Connect for Health Colorado
Connect for Health Colorado is the state’s official health insurance marketplace. Its mission is to increase access, affordability and choice for individuals, families and small employers purchasing health insurance in Colorado. It is the only place where residents can qualify for and receive financial help for their health insurance.