Open enrollment is almost here! 

With 2027 open enrollment just around the corner, now is a good time to start reminding the people you serve to think about their health coverage for next year. There are a number of changes coming for 2027 and we know that can bring questions and make navigating coverage feel a little more complicated. 

That’s where we come in! Get Covered South Dakota Navigators provide free, personalized help to walk individuals and families through their coverage options, applications, and enrollment. As a partner, one of the most helpful things you can do is simply start the conversation and connect people with us when they need help. You don’t have to have all the answers; our Navigators are here to help make sure people understand their options and know what steps to take next. 

Thank you for continuing to partner with us and for helping connect South Dakotans with the coverage and resources they need. We’re looking forward to working with you throughout open enrollment! 

Brittany 
Navigator Program Manager
Bzephier@communityhealthcare.net

Marketplace open enrollment starts November 1 

Policy changes impacting eligibility

Marketplace immigrant eligibility

Several recent federal policy changes affect Marketplace coverage and financial assistance for immigrants: 

• DACA recipients: No longer eligible for Marketplace coverage or Marketplace financial assistance as of August 2025.

• Eligibility for financial assistance is more limited: Beginning with plan year 2027, PTC eligibility will generally be limited to certain immigrant groups, including lawful permanent residents, Cuban-Haitian entrants, and COFA migrants.  

• Other lawfully present immigrants may lose access to premium tax credits: This includes certain refugees, asylees, survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking, and individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS).  

• Income below 100% FPL: Beginning January 2026, no one—regardless of immigration status—qualifies for federal Marketplace financial assistance if household income is below 100% FPL. 

Eligibility can depend on immigration status, income, household circumstances, and other factors. Encourage individuals to seek personalized enrollment assistance before assuming they are no longer eligible for coverage.

Visit the support materials web page to see full list of changes.

Medicaid/CHIP immigrant eligibility

Starting October 1, 2026, changes to federal law will affect Medicaid and CHIP eligibility for some immigrants. Lawful permanent residents (green card holders), Cuban/Haitian entrants, and COFA migrants will continue to be eligible for federally funded Medicaid and CHIP if they meet other program requirements. 

Federal funding for full Medicaid and CHIP coverage will generally no longer be available for some groups who were previously eligible, including: 

• refugees;

• asylees; 

• many parolees; and, 

• certain other humanitarian categories. 

Eligibility can depend on an individual's specific immigration category and other factors, so people who receive a notice about changes to their coverage should review it carefully and seek help if they have questions. 

Medicaid's upcoming community engagement requirements

Starting in 2027, some adults enrolled in Medicaid may need to meet new community engagement requirements, including reporting time spent working, volunteering, attending school, or participating in other qualifying activities. Other changes may also affect eligibility and renewal timelines. 

Partners can help by encouraging Medicaid patients and community members to take a few minutes now to log in to their Medicaid account, update their contact information, and check their notification preferences. This can help ensure they receive important notices about changes, deadlines, and actions they may need to take. 

Help spread the word: Use CHAD’s H.R.1 implementation toolkit for ready-to-share social media posts, graphics, and other resources. 

A fresh look for Get Covered South Dakota

We’ve given the Get Covered South Dakota website a refresh! You’ll find an updated look, easier organization, and refreshed content to help visitors find the information they need. The website is still in the same place, with the same tools and resources you know and use. Take a look around and see what’s new.

Support materials 

This resource hub gives you the tools, materials, and support you need to share accurate information, connect people to coverage, and strengthen outreach in your community. Browse archived newsletters, downloadable marketing materials, enrollment resources, and education opportunities—or connect with our team for personalized support. 

If you’d like printed materials to have on-hand or to share with patients, clients, or community members as you prepare for open enrollment, we’re happy to mail materials directly to your organization. Just reach out and let us know what you need! 

Resource spotlight

2026 health insurance open enrollment toolkit

Explore the ready-to-use and customizable social media images, videos, and captions to promote health insurance enrollment and Navigator services during open enrollment. You’ll also find talking points, conversation scripts for front desk staff, and more. Designed to help you reach people who may need coverage, are new to the Marketplace, or simply want help understanding their options. 

Contact us