Your 2026 Individual & Family Health Plan Transition Toolkit
A Step-by-Step Guide to Finding New Coverage When Banner/Aetna Leaves the ACA Marketplace
If you’re one of the 1 million people affected by CVS Health’s decision to exit the individual ACA market, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed. The good news? You will have other options—and the earlier you start preparing, the smoother the switch will be.
Here’s how to take control of your health coverage transition:
🛠 Your 2026 Health Plan Transition Toolkit
Step-by-Step: How to Find a New ACA Plan When Aetna Leaves the Market
If you’re currently enrolled in an Aetna plan through the ACA marketplace, you’ll need new coverage starting in 2026. But don’t worry—you’re not alone, and there are plenty of good options still available. The key is planning ahead and getting the right guidance.
Here’s how to make the switch with confidence:
✅ 1. Know When to Act
- Open Enrollment for 2026 starts November 1, 2025, and runs through January 15, 2026 in most states.
- Important: Banner/Aetna plans will no longer be available in 2026, so you must choose a new plan during this window to stay covered.
🧠 2. Get Clear on What You Need
Before comparing plans, think about:
- Which doctors or specialists you want to keep
- How often you visit the doctor
- Any ongoing prescriptions or expected medical procedures
- Your budget for premiums vs. out-of-pocket costs
This helps narrow down the right plan level (Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum).
🤝 3. Work with us, Licensed Insurance Agents
Don’t try to figure it all out alone—we are licensed insurance agents and can make the process much easier.
We will:
- Help you compare plans side by side
- Explain the fine print (networks, deductibles, formularies)
- Identify which plans cover your doctors and prescriptions
- Ensure you’re getting all the financial assistance you qualify for
Best part? Our help is usually free to you.
🔍 4. Compare Plans Thoroughly
When enrollment opens:
- Use HealthCare.gov or your state exchange to view available plans.
- Look at:
- Monthly premiums
- Deductibles and copays
- Coverage for your medications
- Whether your providers are in-network
- We can walk you through all of this and help you avoid surprises later.
💵 5. Check for Financial Help
You may still qualify for:
- Premium tax credits (to lower monthly costs)
- Cost-sharing reductions (to lower deductibles/copays)
We can help you apply for these subsidies correctly and make sure you don’t leave money on the table.
✍️ 6. Enroll and Confirm
Once you’ve selected a plan:
- Submit your application during open enrollment
- Pay your first premium on time to activate coverage
- Double-check that your new insurer has your correct info
💡 Final Tips:
- Don’t wait until the last minute. Good agents book up fast during open enrollment.
- Ask questions. We are here to help you make informed decisions.
- Stay organized. Keep a folder with plan details, receipts, and communications.
💡 Pro Tips:
- Don’t auto-renew: Since Aetna is leaving, you’ll need to actively choose a new plan.
- Check your doctors: Use plan tools or call your providers to confirm they’re in-network.
- Set a reminder for re-enrollment: Put open enrollment dates in your calendar now.
