January 5, 2024  –  On December 20, 2023, HealthCare.gov enrollments soared to new heights. The Biden-Harris Administration proudly announced a groundbreaking increase in Americans securing health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace. As the numbers come in, over 19 million consumers are projected to enroll in 2024 coverage. This is a big leap from previous years.

On December 15, 2023 alone, over 745,000 individuals chose a Marketplace plan via HealthCare.gov. This marks the largest single-day enrollment ever recorded. This surge brought the total to an impressive 15.3 million individuals who have selected a plan, which is a 33% increase from last year.

Secretary Xavier Becerra expressed the Administration’s dedication, highlighting that the surge in enrollments translates into more Americans having the reassurance that healthcare is within reach. “Millions of Americans signing up for health care coverage under the Affordable Care Act is good news. It means more Americans have the peace of mind of knowing that going to the doctor won’t empty their bank account. The Biden-Harris Administration will continue working to expand health care coverage and lower prescription drug costs, so taking care of your health is not a luxury.”

CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure added, “More than 15.3 million people have signed up for Health Insurance Marketplace plans in states that use HealthCare.gov, an impressive 33% increase compared to this time last year. The Marketplace clearly meets an important need in Americans’ lives, making access to health care possible for adults and their children. The Affordable Care Act connects more people to preventive and life-saving care, helping more people and their families live the American dream. We look forward to continuing to get people enrolled ahead of the January 16 deadline.” 

With the January 16 deadline approaching, the Administration is urging families to visit HealthCare.gov to explore their options. Thanks to ongoing legislative efforts, approximately 90% of customers can expect eligibility for savings. Additionally, many may find that they qualify for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), providing further avenues to affordable care.

The Open Enrollment Period typically spans from November 1 to January 15. However, with January 15, 2024, being a federal holiday, the deadline extends to midnight on January 16. Enrollments made by this date will activate coverage starting February 1, 2024.

The 2024 enrollment season highlights an increasingly competitive and user-friendly Marketplace. The introduction of standardized plans allows for easier comparison, ensuring consumers can make informed decisions based on their unique needs.

As enrollments continue to climb, the ACA Marketplace is not just growing but evolving. With proposed measures for 2025 aiming to expand access to more robust and affordable health coverage options, including the potential addition of routine adult dental services, the future looks promising. 

The next snapshot of nationwide plan selections, including state-specific plan selection information, will be released January 10, 2024 so stay tuned for more!