SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The annual open enrollment period for the Health Insurance Marketplace is set to begin November 1, 2025, offering individuals and families across South Dakota the opportunity to enroll or re-enroll in a plan for 2026. Enrollment runs through January 15, 2026.
The Marketplace, accessible at HealthCare.gov, provides affordable health insurance options for those who do not have employer-sponsored coverage and are not eligible for Medicaid or Medicare. Plans secured through the Marketplace guarantee comprehensive coverage with no exclusions or markups for pre-existing conditions. These plans include essential benefits such as hospital and doctor visits, prescription drugs, mental health treatment, and maternity care, as well as free preventive care services.
South Dakota residents, including those in the Rapid City and Black Hills area, can receive free assistance navigating their health coverage options. “This year, we are encouraging individuals to log into their Marketplace account shortly after November 1 to complete their application for 2026,” said Lindsey Karlson, Director of Programs and Training at the Community HealthCare Association of the Dakotas. “We anticipate that there will be changes to advanced premium tax credits compared to 2025. Logging in early gives people time to review those changes and select a plan.”
Free, local enrollment help is available through Get Covered South Dakota’s team of Navigators. These experts are trained to help residents compare plans, determine eligibility for extra savings, and complete the enrollment process. Translation services are also provided at no cost.
To connect with a Navigator, South Dakotans can schedule a free Zoom appointment or fill out the contact form at GetCoveredSouthDakota.org, call 605-277-8405, or get connected through a local community health center. Participating health centers include Complete Health, Falls Community Health, Horizon Health, South Dakota Urban Indian Health, and Oyate Health Center.
To ensure coverage starts on January 1, 2026, enrollment must be completed by December 15, 2025. Enrollment between December 16, 2025, and January 15, 2026, will result in coverage beginning on February 1, 2026.