Supporting South Dakotans Seeking Health Coverage During Marketplace Open Enrollment
During this year’s annual open enrollment period, November 1, 2025, through January 15, 2026, individuals can enroll or re-enroll in a Marketplace health insurance plan. South Dakotans can receive free assistance exploring their health coverage options with Get Covered South Dakota or through their local community health center.
The Marketplace offers affordable health insurance coverage for individuals and families who don’t have access to health insurance through their employer and those who are not eligible for Medicaid or Medicare. “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.”
People enrolling in a plan on the Marketplace at HealthCare.gov are guaranteed comprehensive coverage with no pre-existing condition exclusions or markups. These plans cover essential benefits, including doctor and hospital visits, prescription drugs, mental health treatment, and maternity care. In addition, enrollees receive free preventive care services, such as vaccines and health screenings.
Assistance for South Dakota Enrollees
Anyone in South Dakota can get free, local help signing up for health insurance through our team of Navigators. Navigators are here to make the process simple and stress-free—helping you compare plans, see if you qualify for extra savings, and complete your enrollment. Translation services are also available for free if you don’t speak English. You can schedule a free Zoom appointment or fill out the contact form at GetCoveredSouthDakota.org, call 605-277-8405, or get connected through any health center in the state.
No matter your situation, Navigators are here to help you find affordable coverage and understand how to use it to stay healthy. Health centers that can help are Complete Health, Falls Community Health, Horizon Health, South Dakota Urban Indian Health, and Oyate Health Center. To get coverage starting Jan 1, 2026, enroll by Dec 15, 2025. To get coverage starting Feb 1, 2026, enroll between Dec 16, 2025 and Jan 15, 2026.