If you’re one of the many Americans relying on an Aetna CVS Health individual or family plan through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace, you’ve likely heard the big news: Starting January 1, 2026, Aetna CVS Health will no longer offer plans on the ACA Marketplace.
This change will affect an estimated 1 million policyholders across 17 states, leaving many to wonder: What happens to my health insurance plan? How do I find a new plan?
Don’t worry — you’re not alone. Let’s break down exactly what’s happening, why it matters, and how you can take simple steps to secure the right health coverage for 2026. And if you’d rather not navigate it alone, the team at AHiX Marketplace is ready to help you compare ACA-compliant plans and choose what works best for you.
Before we get into what you should do next, it helps to understand why Aetna CVS Health is making this change.
Why Is Aetna CVS Health Leaving the ACA Marketplace in 2026?
Many people are searching online for “Why is Aetna leaving the ACA Marketplace?” — and it’s a fair question.
The decision to exit the public Marketplace is part of a larger strategic shift for CVS Health, which owns Aetna. Rising costs, challenging financial performance, and a new management team focused on streamlining operations all played a role in this move.
In its 2025 earnings report, CVS Health reported strong overall revenue but noted that the individual ACA plans were no longer sustainable for their business model. By stepping away, the company plans to refocus on other health benefits, like Medicare Advantage and employer-sponsored plans — areas they believe can deliver better value for both the company and members.
So, now that you know why this change is happening, let’s look at exactly who needs to pay attention to it.
Aetna to Leave ACA Marketplace: Who’s Impacted?
Here’s the short answer:
If you have an individual or family health insurance plan purchased through Healthcare.gov or your state’s ACA exchange, and your card says Aetna CVS Health, your plan will end after December 31, 2025.
This change does not affect:
- Aetna Medicare Advantage plans
- Aetna employer-sponsored group plans
- Other private, non-ACA plans you may have through work or other channels
It’s worth double-checking:
- Are you under 65 and not on Medicare?
- Did you buy your plan through the Marketplace or your state’s exchange?
- Is your insurance card branded with Aetna or CVS Health?
If you answered yes to all three, you’ll need to find a new plan for 2026.
So, if you’re among those affected, here’s what you can expect for the rest of this year.
What Happens to My Current Aetna Marketplace Plan in 2025?
Good news: Nothing changes for 2025.
You can continue seeing your doctors, filling prescriptions, and using your Aetna CVS Health benefits like you always have — right up until December 31, 2025.
If you haven’t received one already, Aetna will send you an official letter outlining what to do next. But you don’t have to wait until then to start thinking about your options — because the more prepared you are, the smoother your transition will be.
So now, the next step is to understand exactly when and how to switch to new coverage.
When to Switch Aetna ACA Plans — Open Enrollment 2025 Timeline & Tips
Here’s where many people get stressed — but you don’t have to be one of them!
You’ll need to choose a new ACA-compliant plan from a different health insurance company during Open Enrollment, which begins November 1, 2025, in most states. This is the annual window when anyone can shop for new Marketplace plans, compare benefits, and enroll for coverage that starts January 1, 2026.
So, your timeline looks like this:
- July 2025: Watch for Aetna’s official letter.
- November 1, 2025: Open Enrollment begins — the earlier you shop, the better!
- December 15, 2025: Deadline to finalize your new plan starting January 1, 2026.
Now it’s time to figure out how to compare your options with confidence — and that’s easier than you might think.
How to Compare Marketplace Health Insurance Plans — Without the Headache
Searching for “How do I compare ACA Marketplace plans?” or “How to switch health insurance plans when Aetna ends?” is a smart first step. But the process can feel overwhelming. That’s where AHiX Marketplace comes in.
At AHiX, we believe finding the right health insurance plan shouldn’t be stressful or confusing. With our online tools and friendly licensed agents, you can:
- Compare multiple ACA-compliant health insurance plans side by side — so you see exactly what you’re paying for.
- Check whether your preferred doctors and prescriptions are covered in each plan’s network.
- See if you qualify for updated federal subsidies that may lower your monthly premium for 2026.
- Get answers to your questions — from enrollment dates to plan benefits — in plain English.
We know every family’s needs are different. Maybe you want the lowest monthly premium. Or you’d rather pay more up front but have lower out-of-pocket costs when you see a specialist. We help you weigh those trade-offs so you can make the best choice for your health and your wallet.
Why Use AHiX Marketplace to Shop for Your New Health Insurance Plan?
When Aetna exits the Marketplace, you’ll have dozens — sometimes hundreds — of plan options to choose from in your state. But more options don’t always make things easier.
With AHiX Marketplace, you get:
- Unbiased guidance — We work for you, not the insurance companies.
- Clear comparisons — No hidden fine print; know exactly what’s included.
- Trusted support — Our licensed agents can help you enroll correctly, so you don’t miss deadlines or paperwork.
- Local expertise — We know the carriers and networks in your area, so you don’t waste time with plans that won’t work for you.
Think of it like having a trusted guide in your corner — helping you navigate this transition with confidence.
As you narrow down your plan choices, it’s also important to stay informed about potential changes to ACA subsidies for 2026.
Will ACA Subsidies Still Be Available in 2026?
One more thing to keep an eye on: the enhanced federal subsidies that helped many people afford their ACA plans are set to expire at the end of 2025, unless Congress renews them.
It’s a good idea to review your income and household size before Open Enrollment — so you know what you might qualify for. At AHiX Marketplace, our tools automatically calculate your estimated subsidy, so you don’t miss out on savings you deserve.
Key Takeaways for Aetna ACA Members
- Your current Aetna plan stays the same for 2025.
- It ends after December 31, 2025.
- You’ll need to pick a new plan during Open Enrollment, which starts November 1, 2025.
- AHiX Marketplace is here to help you compare plans, check your doctors, see your savings, and enroll stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions about Aetna CVS Exiting ACA Marketplace in 2026
1. What happens to my Aetna Marketplace health insurance after 2025?
If you’re covered by an Aetna CVS Health individual or family plan through Healthcare.gov or your state exchange, your plan will stay the same until December 31, 2025. After that, you’ll need to choose a new ACA-compliant plan for 2026.
Tip: Use AHiX Marketplace to easily compare your options before Open Enrollment starts.
2. Will I lose my doctors when Aetna leaves the Marketplace?
It depends. Some doctors may be in-network with other insurance carriers. When comparing new ACA health plans for 2026, be sure to check each plan’s network to see if your preferred doctors and specialists are included in the plan you select.
3. When should I switch my Aetna Marketplace plan?
Your Aetna plan stays active until December 31, 2025, but you should shop for new coverage during Open Enrollment, which begins November 1, 2025, in most states.
For seamless coverage, pick your new plan before December 15, 2025, so it starts on January 1, 2026.
4. How can I find the best ACA Marketplace plan to replace Aetna?
People often search: “Best ACA plan when Aetna cancels my policy” or “How to choose new Marketplace health insurance”. The best plan depends on your family’s needs, doctors, prescriptions, and budget. AHiX Marketplace can help you compare multiple plans side by side, check if your doctors are in-network, and find subsidies that lower your premium.
5. Can I get ACA subsidies if Aetna cancels my Marketplace plan?
Yes! If you qualify based on your household income, you can still get ACA subsidies for 2026 — but keep in mind, enhanced federal subsidies are set to expire at the end of 2025 unless renewed by Congress
6. Do I need to cancel my Aetna Marketplace plan myself?
No. Aetna will automatically end your plan after December 31, 2025. There’s nothing you need to cancel — but you must actively enroll in a new ACA plan to stay covered in 2026.
7. What if I miss Open Enrollment when Aetna leaves the ACA Marketplace?
If you miss the Open Enrollment window (usually November 1 to January 15), you may not be able to get Marketplace coverage until the next year — unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (like losing your Aetna plan counts!).
8. Can an insurance agent help me find a new plan when Aetna leaves the Marketplace?
Absolutely. A licensed agent can explain plan details, check your doctors, compare costs, and help you enroll correctly.
Pro Tip: AHiX Marketplace connects you with trusted agents at no extra cost.
Want more help?
Visit AHiX Marketplace today to compare 2026 Marketplace plans and get personalized support so you stay covered, confident, and stress-free.
