Open Enrollment Runs November 1, 2026, Through January 15, 2027
The University of South Florida’s Covering Florida Navigator Program (CFNP) is encouraging Floridians to take advantage of free, impartial enrollment assistance during the Health Insurance Marketplace Open Enrollment Period, which begins November 1, 2026, and continues through January 15, 2027. Consumers who enroll by December 15, 2026, can have coverage effective January 1, 2027.
The Covering Florida Navigator Program, a program at the USF College of Public Health, has a long history of helping Floridians access health coverage. As Floridians review their health insurance options for 2027, trained Navigators are available to help individuals and families understand their choices, compare plans, determine eligibility for financial assistance and complete Marketplace applications at no cost.
"Health insurance decisions can be complicated, especially when families are balancing health care needs and household budgets," says Dr. Xonjenese Jacobs, director of the Covering Florida Navigator Program. "Navigators provide trusted, one-on-one support to help consumers make informed decisions and enroll in coverage that meets their needs."
Free Services Available Through Covering Florida Navigators
Navigators provide free assistance with:
- Understanding Health Insurance Marketplace coverage options
- Comparing health plans and costs
- Determining eligibility for premium tax credits and savings
- Completing Marketplace applications
- Renewing existing Marketplace coverage
- Resolving enrollment issues
- Understanding health insurance terminology and benefits
- Referrals to Medicaid, CHIP and community resources when appropriate
- Post-enrollment support, including assistance with Marketplace notices and tax-related questions
Serving Communities Across Florida
For the 2026-2027 program year, the Covering Florida Navigator Program will provide in-person assistance at a few locations across Florida while continuing to offer virtual and telephone support statewide for all 67 counties. Assistance is available in multiple languages and through appointments tailored to consumer preferences.
The program's statewide efforts are supported through partnerships with:
- Big Bend Area Health Education Center
- Health Council of Southeast Florida
- Health Planning Council of Southwest Florida
- Family Healthcare Foundation
- Suwannee River Area Health Education Center
Together, these organizations work to ensure Floridians have access to trusted enrollment assistance and health coverage education in their local communities.
Why Consumers Should Review Their Coverage
According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Marketplace consumers will continue to have access to a broad range of plan options for 2027, making it important for individuals and families to review available plans and costs during Open Enrollment rather than automatically renewing existing coverage.
Get Connected with a Navigator
Floridians seeking free enrollment assistance can schedule an appointment with a Covering Florida Navigator, connect virtually or receive support by phone through the program's statewide assistance network.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.CoveringFlorida.org or call 877-813-9115.
About the Covering Florida Navigator Program
The Covering Florida Navigator Program is administered by the University of South Florida and provides free, impartial education, outreach, enrollment, and post-enrollment assistance to Floridians seeking health coverage through the federally facilitated Health Insurance Marketplace. The program works with community-based partners across the state to improve health insurance literacy and connect consumers with affordable health coverage options. This program is supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $1,379,250 with 100 percent funded by CMS/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CMS/HHS, or the U.S. Government.