Open enrollment guide · Updated Oct 27, 2026
Open Enrollment 2027 Calculator: Pick Your Work Benefits in 10 Minutes
Most employers hold open enrollment in November for coverage starting January 1, 2027, and what you pick is locked in for the year unless you have a qualifying life event. Here's the 10-minute version.
The checklist
- Find your benefits guide (PDF or the enrollment portal). Note each plan's premium per paycheck for your tier, deductible, out-of-pocket max and any employer HSA money.
- Price each plan three ways: quiet year, expected year, bad year (premiums + out-of-pocket max). The plan that wins two of three is usually right.
- Check your doctors and prescriptions are in-network and on the formulary.
- Decide HSA or FSA: HSA only with an HSA-eligible plan; FSA only for spending you're sure of.
- Get your full 401(k) match. Not taking it is turning down part of your pay.
- Childcare? The dependent care FSA is $7,500 per household for 2027.
- Check take-home pay per paycheck with your new elections before you submit.
2027 numbers you need
| Item | 2027 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| HSA, self-only / family | $4,500 / $9,000 | $4,400 / $8,750 |
| HSA catch-up (55+) | $1,000 | $1,000 |
| HDHP minimum deductible | $1,750 / $3,500 | $1,700 / $3,400 |
| HDHP out-of-pocket max | $8,700 / $17,400 | $8,500 / $17,000 |
| Dependent care FSA | $7,500 | $7,500 |
| Health FSA | Not announced yet* | $3,400 ($680 carryover) |
| 401(k) employee limit | Not announced yet* | $24,500 |
Sources: IRS Rev. Proc. 2026-24 (HSA/HDHP 2027), Rev. Proc. 2025-19 and 2025-32, Notice 2025-67. *Not published by the IRS as of Oct 28, 2026; many employers let you update FSA elections once it is.
FAQ
When is open enrollment for 2027?
Employer open enrollment is set by your company, usually a 2–3 week window in late October to November. HealthCare.gov open enrollment for 2027 coverage starts Nov 1, 2026.
Can I change my benefits after open enrollment?
Generally only after a qualifying life event such as marriage, birth or adoption, or losing other coverage. 401(k) contributions can usually be changed any time.