Connecticut Health Insurance Marketplace: Your Guide to Access Health CT (2026)
If you’re looking for health insurance in Connecticut, you’ll be shopping through Access Health CT, the state’s own marketplace and one of the most successful state-run exchanges in the country. Whether you’re enrolling for the first time, switching plans, or just trying to figure out what financial help you qualify for, this guide walks you through the whole process. Connecticut set a record in 2026 with 157,246 residents enrolled in marketplace plans, and a big reason for that is the state committed $70 million in new subsidies to keep coverage affordable after federal premium assistance expired.
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What Is Access Health CT?
Access Health CT is Connecticut’s official health insurance marketplace, established under the Affordable Care Act in 2013. It is where individuals, families, and small businesses compare and purchase ACA-compliant health insurance plans from private carriers. Connecticut is one of 18 states (plus DC) that operates its own exchange rather than using the federal HealthCare.gov platform.
The Connecticut health insurance marketplace serves as the only pathway to federal premium tax credits, cost-sharing reductions, the Covered Connecticut program, and the state’s new 2026 Temporary Premium Assistance. Residents who purchase the same plan directly from a carrier outside the marketplace pay the same base premium but cannot access any of these financial assistance programs.
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
On ExchangeOffers Bronze, Silver, and Gold plans in HMO, PPO, and EPO network types. Lowest average premiums on the marketplace at $850/month for a 40-year-old before subsidies. Maintains the largest provider network in the state.
ConnectiCare
On ExchangeOffers HMO and POS plans through two subsidiaries. Average premiums range from $885 to $1,096/month. Strongest in POS options and select plans include integrated dental and vision benefits.
A detailed comparison of each carrier’s plan offerings, network size, and member ratings is available in the Connecticut health insurance companies guide. Both carriers are required to cover all 10 Essential Health Benefits and accept all applicants regardless of pre-existing conditions.
How to Enroll Through the Connecticut Marketplace
Enrolling in a Connecticut health insurance marketplace plan begins with creating an account on the Access Health CT website, where the system walks applicants through income verification, household details, and plan comparison. The process typically takes 30 to 45 minutes and can be completed online, by phone at 1-855-805-4325, or in person at one of the state’s enrollment locations.
Gather Your Documents
Collect Social Security numbers, immigration documents (if applicable), employer and income information, and current policy details for everyone in the household who needs coverage.
Create an Account
Visit the Access Health CT website or call to start an application. The system determines eligibility for HUSKY Health (Medicaid/CHIP), Covered Connecticut, premium tax credits, and cost-sharing reductions.
Compare Plans
Review available plans from Anthem and ConnectiCare across Bronze, Silver, and Gold tiers. Filter by premium, deductible, network, and prescription drug coverage to find the best fit.
Select and Enroll
Choose a plan, confirm enrollment, and pay the first month’s premium to activate coverage. Residents who want to compare network types can review how PPO plans differ from HMO and EPO options.
Subsidies Are Only Available Through the Marketplace
Financial assistance — including premium tax credits, cost-sharing reductions, and Covered Connecticut benefits — is only available through the Connecticut health insurance marketplace. Residents who purchase plans directly from carriers outside the exchange pay the full unsubsidized premium.
Open Enrollment and Special Enrollment Periods
The Connecticut health insurance marketplace follows an annual open enrollment period during which any resident can sign up for or change coverage. For 2027 coverage, open enrollment runs from November 1, 2026, through January 15, 2027. Connecticut has extended this deadline in recent years, so residents should check Access Health CT for any updates as the period approaches. The Connecticut Insurance Department oversees carrier rate approvals and consumer protections for all marketplace plans.
| Enrollment Window | Dates (2027 Coverage) | Coverage Start |
|---|---|---|
| Standard OEP | Nov 1 – Dec 15, 2026 | Jan 1, 2027 |
| Extended OEP | Dec 16, 2026 – Jan 15, 2027 | Feb 1, 2027 |
| Extended Deadline (if offered) | Jan 16 – Jan 31, 2027 (TBD) | Feb 1 or March 1, 2027 |
| Qualifying Life Event | Year-round (60-day window) | 1st of following month |
Qualifying Life Events for Special Enrollment
Outside of open enrollment, Connecticut residents can enroll through the Connecticut health insurance marketplace if they experience a qualifying life event within the past 60 days. According to the HealthCare.gov qualifying life events glossary, common events include losing employer-sponsored or government health coverage, getting married or divorced, having or adopting a child, and moving to a new zip code. Connecticut is also one of a small number of states that recognizes pregnancy as a qualifying life event, allowing uninsured pregnant residents to enroll outside of open enrollment.
Real-World Example
A Hartford resident who loses employer coverage in April has 60 days from the coverage loss date to enroll in a marketplace plan through Access Health CT. Coverage begins on the first day of the month following plan selection.
Additional qualifying events include gaining citizenship or lawful presence, leaving incarceration, errors in marketplace enrollment, and income changes affecting HUSKY or Covered CT eligibility. American Indians and Alaska Natives can enroll in marketplace plans year-round without needing a qualifying event.
Subsidies and Financial Assistance on the Marketplace
Approximately 90% of Connecticut marketplace enrollees receive some form of financial assistance that lowers their monthly premiums. Learn more about how marketplace subsidies lower monthly premiums. The Connecticut health insurance marketplace is the only channel for accessing federal premium tax credits, cost-sharing reductions, the Covered Connecticut program, and the state’s 2026 Temporary Premium Assistance. A full breakdown of every available program is covered in the affordable health insurance in Connecticut guide.
Premium Tax Credits
FederalAvailable for incomes between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level. Reduces monthly premiums based on household income and the cost of the benchmark Silver plan in the enrollee’s area.
Cost-Sharing Reductions
Silver OnlyLowers deductibles, copays, and out-of-pocket maximums for households earning between 100% and 250% of FPL. Only available on Silver-tier plans purchased through Access Health CT.
Covered Connecticut
$0 PlansProvides $0-premium and $0-cost-sharing coverage for residents earning up to 175% of FPL. Over 51,629 residents enrolled for 2026, an increase of more than 10,000 from the previous year.
2026 Temporary Premium Assistance
State-FundedConnecticut committed $70 million to offset the loss of enhanced federal subsidies. Fully covers subsidy reductions for incomes up to 200% FPL and provides partial assistance for incomes between 400% and 500% FPL.
Real-World Example
A single Connecticut resident earning $22,000 per year (approximately 140% of FPL) qualifies for federal premium tax credits and Covered Connecticut. This combination results in $0 monthly premium and $0 out-of-pocket costs for a Silver plan, covering doctor visits, prescriptions, and hospital care at no cost.
Marketplace vs. Off-Marketplace Coverage in Connecticut
Connecticut residents can purchase ACA-compliant health insurance either through the Connecticut health insurance marketplace or directly from a carrier. The plans themselves may be identical in benefits and provider networks, but where you buy makes a significant difference in cost for most people.
| Feature | Through Access Health CT | Directly from Carrier |
|---|---|---|
| Premium tax credits | Yes, if eligible | No |
| Cost-sharing reductions | Yes, Silver plans | No |
| Covered CT ($0 plans) | Yes, if eligible | No |
| 2026 state premium assistance | Yes | No |
| HUSKY Health screening | Automatic | Not available |
| Free enrollment help | Phone, chat, in-person | Through carrier only |
Purchasing directly from a carrier only makes sense for residents who earn above 400% of FPL and do not qualify for any financial assistance. For everyone else, the Connecticut health insurance marketplace is the only path to lower premiums and reduced out-of-pocket costs. Residents who need temporary coverage between plans may also want to review short-term health insurance in Connecticut, though these plans do not qualify for marketplace subsidies.
For a broader look at how plan tiers, carrier networks, and costs compare across all Connecticut options, the Connecticut health insurance overview covers the full landscape including age-based pricing and enrollment steps.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Connecticut Health Insurance Marketplace
These are the most common questions Connecticut residents ask about enrolling in coverage through Access Health CT, the state’s official Connecticut health insurance marketplace for individual and family health plans.
When is the next open enrollment period for Access Health CT?
The annual open enrollment period typically runs from November 1 through January 15. For 2027 coverage, enrollment opens November 1, 2026. Connecticut has extended the deadline in previous years, so check Access Health CT closer to the date for any changes. If you enroll by December 15, your coverage starts January 1.
Can I enroll in the Connecticut marketplace if I have employer coverage?
You can browse and purchase a marketplace plan, but you will not qualify for premium tax credits unless your employer plan is considered unaffordable (costing more than 9.02% of household income) or fails to meet minimum value standards covering at least 60% of average costs.
How do I know if I qualify for Covered Connecticut?
When you submit an application through Access Health CT, the system automatically checks whether your household income falls at or below 175% of the federal poverty level, which is the Covered CT eligibility threshold. If you qualify, you will be directed to enroll in a Silver plan with $0 premiums and $0 cost-sharing.
What happens if my income changes during the year?
You must report income changes to Access Health CT as soon as possible. If your income rises, your subsidy amount may decrease and you could owe money when filing your federal tax return. If your income drops, you may qualify for more help including Covered CT or HUSKY Health.
Is pregnancy a qualifying life event in Connecticut?
Yes. Connecticut is one of a small number of states that recognizes pregnancy as a qualifying life event for special enrollment. Pregnant residents who are uninsured or want to change plans can enroll through Access Health CT outside of the annual open enrollment period.
Does Access Health CT offer dental insurance?
Yes. Stand-alone dental plans are available through the marketplace, and 19,416 residents enrolled in marketplace dental coverage for 2026, a 9% increase over the prior year. Pediatric dental coverage is also included in most health plans for dependents under age 26. You do not need to enroll in a health plan to purchase a stand-alone dental plan.
Related Connecticut Coverage Guides
Plans, costs by age, and carrier comparisons.
Connecticut Health Insurance CompaniesAnthem and ConnectiCare profiles and ratings.
Affordable Health Insurance in ConnecticutLow-cost options, subsidies, and savings strategies.
Short-Term Health Insurance in ConnecticutTemporary coverage options and limitations.
PPO vs. HMO vs. EPO vs. POSCompare plan types and find the right network for you.
PPO Health Insurance PlansHow PPO plans work and when they make sense.
See Your Connecticut Marketplace Options
Connecticut committed $70 million in new state subsidies for 2026, and some residents qualify for $0-premium coverage through Covered CT. The right plan depends on your zip code, income, and household size. See every option side by side in minutes.
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ForHealthInsurance.com is an independent health insurance agency serving Connecticut residents. We are not affiliated with any carrier or government agency. We help you compare plans and enroll in coverage that meets your needs at no extra cost to you.