Whether you call it your “honey-do list,” errands, chores or simply tasks, we all keep a running list of things that need our attention. If you’re like me, the quickest, easiest or most enjoyable items usually get checked off first. Meanwhile, less appealing responsibilities – like filing taxes, scheduling a dental visit or folding laundry – tend to linger at the bottom.

Shopping for health insurance often ends up there, too. But this year, it’s more important than ever to move it to the top of your list – and to tackle it early. Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening in both the Medicare and individual insurance markets so you can make the process of choosing the right plan simpler and less stressful.


Medicare Plan Changes For 2026

Over the past few years, the federal government has been shifting more of Medicare’s costs onto insurance companies and prescription drug manufacturers. This change is having a noticeable impact on both Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans.

In the Medicare Advantage space especially, we’re seeing two major trends:

First, the number of $0 premium plans is shrinking. More plans now come with a monthly premium – and not just a small one! In fact, many plans that were free in 2025 could cost $50 or more per month in 2026.

Second, for the plans that do remain at $0 premium, many of the popular “extras” are being scaled back. Benefits such as free dental, vision, fitness programs, and over-the-counter allowances will be reduced in 2026, making it more important than ever to compare your options carefully.


So How Do You Know If This Impacts You?

Start by reviewing your Annual Notice of Change letter, which should have arrived in early October. This document explains exactly how your current plan will change for 2026. You can also visit Medicare.gov for up-to-date information or request a printed copy of Medicare & You, the official guide that outlines all the plans available in your area.

Medicare Supplement (or “Medigap”) market is also undergoing changes. While the benefits of these plans will remain the same, many enrollees will notice larger premium increases this year. Some carriers are already sending notices of rate hikes in the range of 20–25 percent for people who have Original Medicare paired with a supplement. Unfortunately, these increases are expected to continue across the industry for the next two to three years before the market stabilizes.


Individual Health Insurance Changes

Those under age 65 aren’t immune to the changes, either. A new administration, new rules and shifting regulations mean 2026 will bring significant adjustments for anyone responsible for their own health insurance.

The biggest factor is the scheduled expiration of the subsidy expansions that began in 2020. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the income threshold for receiving government assistance through the Marketplace was temporarily raised from 400 percent of the federal poverty level to over 600 percent. That expansion is set to expire on December 31, 2025, and as of the time this article was written, no new legislation had been passed to extend it.

The impact will be substantial. In Metro Detroit, four insurance companies are exiting the Marketplace entirely for 2026, and those that remain are raising rates by an average of 18 percent. When you factor in the reduced subsidies, many families could see their total costs rise by 40–60 percent in the new year.


So What Do You Do???

The good news is that you have options – both with Medicare and individual insurance plans. Remember, you are not limited to shopping only on Healthcare.gov or Medicare.gov. Take time to explore your choices and do your research.

When comparing plans, be cautious. Companies and agents often highlight the attractive features, but the real story is in the fine print. Pay close attention to the “exclusions and limitations,” since that’s where you’ll discover what isn’t covered – and where you could end up paying more out of pocket.

Another strategy is to consider piggyback plans. With cost-sharing on the rise, a combo of two plans can fill in the gaps, provide better protection and lower overall costs.

Most importantly, choose the plan that fits YOUR needs – not your neighbor’s, not your friend’s and not your family’s. Everyone’s situation is different. While it’s fine to ask others about their experiences, remember that the best plan for them may not be the best plan for you.


Shop Your Plan And Shop Early

Above all, the most important advice I can give is this: shop your plan this year – and shop early. If your current plan still meets your needs for 2026, wonderful! You can check it off your honey-do list and turn your attention to enjoying the holidays. But if you’re among the 80 percent of Americans who may be better served by a different plan this year, it’s worth taking the time to find that plan sooner rather than later.

The good news is that help is available. Local agencies can guide you through your options – often at no cost to you. Just remember, these agencies will be busier than ever, so schedule an appointment early to make sure you secure the coverage that’s right for you before the enrollment window closes.