Open enrollment is short, the emails are confusing, and "just keep what I had" feels safe. It usually isn't. Here are the five mistakes I watch people make year after year.
1. Auto-renewing without looking
Your plan can change even if you don't touch it—networks shift, drugs move tiers, premiums creep up. Auto-renew is convenient, not free.
2. Chasing the lowest premium
We covered this in depth in the deductible breakdown, but it bears repeating: the cheapest monthly cost is often the most expensive plan the moment you need care.
3. Ignoring the drug formulary
If you take a regular medication, check that it's still covered and still on the same tier. A single specialty drug can blow up an otherwise good plan.
4. Forgetting to check your doctors
"In-network" changes. Five minutes confirming your primary care doctor and any specialists can save you a surprise bill later.
5. Not asking anyone
You don't get a prize for doing this alone. A quick conversation before you enroll is free, and it's a lot cheaper than fixing a wrong choice in March.
You can change almost nothing about a plan once the window closes. Spend the 20 minutes now.
If you want a checklist tailored to your household, reach out—I'll walk you through it.
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