Tailored to Fit Your Family: Coverage You Can Count On

Every family is different, and your health insurance should reflect that. Health care coverage protects you from unexpected medical expenses and includes preventive services, such as checkups and screenings, at no additional charge. As individuals and families prepare for the 2026 Open Enrollment period, it’s important to understand your options and the upcoming changes so you can choose a plan that fits your needs.

What’s new for 2026? Bronze and Catastrophic health plans now qualify for health savings accounts (HSAs). These accounts allow you to save for medical expenses, with money that never expires and can be used whenever you need them. HSAs are a flexible option for anyone looking to manage health costs and plan for the future.

The Affordable Care Acts’s enhanced premium tax credits (subsidies), which have helped lower the cost of coverage for many since 2021, may end after 2025 unless Congress extends them. Financial assistance will still be available, but unless Congress renews the enhanced credits, you might receive less aid than in past years, possibly leading to higher out-of-pocket costs for some. In addition, new federal rules will require more documentation and income reporting.

Key Tips Before You Start

• Consider your health needs, budget and coverage priorities. For example, a family with young children may want a plan with strong pediatric care and preventive services. Reviewing your family’s situation can help you find a plan that fits your budget and makes sure your children get regular care.
• Update your Marketplace profile. Whether you need coverage for yourself or your family, confirm your household size, income and dependent information to get the right financial assistance. For instance, a 52-year-old father whose children have moved out should update his Marketplace profile to reflect his new household size, which could affect his eligibility for tax credits.
• Explore plan options. Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield offers a variety of plans offering an extensive network of providers and hospitals, virtual care and emergency coverage nationwide. You can shop and compare on Wellmark.com to find one that matches your lifestyle and budget.
• Get expert guidance. Your local insurance agent or Wellmark representative can help you navigate your choices and any changes.

It’s important to remember that health insurance companies don’t set the rules for coverage. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services determine eligibility, financial help and enrollment rules for all insurers.

To see if your health care tax credit amount has changed, log in to Wellmark.com and update your income information. Your monthly premium will reflect your final tax credit amount.

You must also have filed your 2024 income taxes. Filing confirms your income and ensures you receive the correct tax credit. If you receive too much, you’ll need to repay the difference; if you receive too little, you may receive a refund.

What’s next? The 2026 Open Enrollment period runs from Nov. 1, 2025, through Jan. 15, 2026. Wellmark works with licensed, trained local agents who can help you choose the best plan for your family’s needs and budget. You can also do your own research on Wellmark.com.

No matter your age or stage of life, Wellmark is ready to help you find the right health care coverage.

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