Health Insurance in District of Columbia (2026–2027): Plans, Subsidies & Enrollment
Everything specific to getting covered in District of Columbia — where to shop, how subsidies work here, who qualifies for Medicaid, and the deadlines that matter for 2027 coverage.
Quick Answer: Getting Covered in District of Columbia
District of Columbia residents shop through DC Health Link — the state's own exchange. Premium tax credits are available from roughly 100%–400% of the federal poverty level. Medicaid covers adults up to about 138% FPL, year-round. Open Enrollment for 2027 starts November 1, 2026 — enroll by December 15 for January 1 coverage.
What Makes District of Columbia Different
DC Health Link runs one of the longest enrollment windows in the country (historically through January 31) and DC's Medicaid income limits are among the most generous anywhere.
Note: DC has its own individual mandate with a tax penalty for going uninsured.
Where to Shop for Coverage
District of Columbia runs its own marketplace, DC Health Link — residents don't use HealthCare.gov. State exchanges often set their own (sometimes longer) enrollment deadlines and may offer state-specific savings programs. Either way, working with a licensed advisor costs nothing and gets you the same prices — plus someone who knows which carriers and networks are strong in your county.
- Official exchange: DC Health Link
- Blue Cross affiliate: CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
- Medicaid: expanded, open year-round
Subsidies in District of Columbia for 2026–2027
Federal premium tax credits work identically in all 50 states: eligibility generally runs from 100% to 400% of the federal poverty level (scaled by household size), and qualifying enrollees pay roughly 2.1%–9.96% of income for the benchmark Silver plan. The enhanced pandemic-era credits expired at the end of 2025, so re-checking your eligibility every year matters more than ever — and insurers have proposed double-digit increases again for 2027, which makes comparison shopping at Open Enrollment essential.
Key 2027 Enrollment Dates
- November 1, 2026 — Open Enrollment begins for 2027 coverage.
- December 15, 2026 — deadline for January 1 coverage. Treat this as your real deadline: a 2026 court ruling left the final federal end-date uncertain, though DC Health Link sets its own dates and has historically allowed later enrollment.
- After the deadline — you'll need a qualifying life event (job loss, move, marriage, birth) for a Special Enrollment Period.
Don't auto-renew for 2027
Insurers have requested a median premium increase of roughly 14% for 2027 — the second straight year of double-digit hikes. The plan that was your best deal this year often won't be next year. Compare every carrier in your county before renewing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I buy health insurance in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia runs its own exchange, DC Health Link (https://dchealthlink.com) — not HealthCare.gov. You can also enroll through a licensed advisor at no cost, which gets you the same prices plus help comparing plans.
Can I get a subsidy for health insurance in District of Columbia?
Yes — premium tax credits work the same in every state. For 2026, eligibility generally runs from 100% to 400% of the federal poverty level, scaled by household size, with enrollees paying roughly 2.1%–9.96% of income for the benchmark Silver plan. Many people who assume they earn too much actually qualify — always check before paying sticker price.
Did District of Columbia expand Medicaid?
Yes. District of Columbia expanded Medicaid, so adults with household income up to roughly 138% of the federal poverty level generally qualify — and Medicaid enrollment is open year-round.
When is Open Enrollment in District of Columbia?
Open Enrollment starts November 1, 2026 for 2027 coverage. As a state with its own exchange, District of Columbia sets its own deadline — often extending past the federal one. Enroll by December 15 for January 1 coverage regardless; a 2026 court ruling has left the federal end-date in flux.
Is there a penalty for not having health insurance in District of Columbia?
DC has its own individual mandate with a tax penalty for going uninsured. Check the state's rules before deciding to go uninsured.
What insurance companies offer plans in District of Columbia?
CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield is the state's Blue Cross affiliate, and national carriers commonly participate in marketplace counties alongside regional plans. Lineups change every year and vary by county — a licensed advisor can tell you exactly which carriers and networks are available at your ZIP code.
Compare District of Columbia Plans and Prices
See real plans available at your ZIP code, with subsidies applied. Licensed advisors can walk you through which carriers and networks are strongest in your area — free.
About This Guide: Created by the Health Insurance Network team. Exchange status, Medicaid expansion, and mandate details reflect the 2026 plan year; carrier availability varies by county and changes annually. This is general information, not legal or tax advice.
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