Knowing when you can sign up for health insurance is just as important as choosing the right plan. Enrollment windows, deadlines, and special exceptions can affect whether you're able to get coverage right away or need to wait until the next enrollment period. Whether you're purchasing a plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace, through your employer, or directly from a private insurer, here's what you need to know about when you can sign up for health insurance.
For most people, the main opportunity to enroll in health insurance is during the Open Enrollment Period (OEP).
On the federal Marketplace, Open Enrollment typically runs from November 1 through January 15, though some states with their own exchanges may extend their deadlines. During this time, you can:
If you miss the Open Enrollment deadline, you might not be able to sign up again until the next year—unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.
A Special Enrollment Period allows you to sign up for health insurance outside of the standard enrollment window if you experience certain qualifying life events. These events usually change your household situation or your access to coverage. Common qualifying events include:
In most cases, you have 60 days from the date of the qualifying event to enroll in a new plan. If you miss this window, you may have to wait until the next Open Enrollment period.
Unlike private health insurance, government programs such as Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) accept applications at any time during the year. If your income or circumstances qualify you for these programs, you can enroll immediately—no waiting for Open Enrollment.
Many people who lose Marketplace coverage due to income changes may become eligible for Medicaid and can transition without a gap in coverage.
If you get health insurance through your job, your enrollment period may differ. Employers typically offer their own annual Open Enrollment window, which often occurs toward the end of the year but can vary. You can also enroll in employer coverage if you experience a qualifying life event, similar to the Marketplace rules.
Short-term health insurance, designed as temporary coverage, can typically be purchased year-round. These plans are not ACA-compliant and may not cover essential health benefits, but they can serve as temporary protection if you are between health insurance policies.
Unexpected illnesses and accidents can happen at any time, and gaps in coverage can be costly. Understanding enrollment rules ensures you don't miss critical deadlines or go without coverage longer than necessary.
By knowing exactly when you can sign up for health insurance—and what exceptions may apply—you can make sure you and your family stay protected with the coverage you need.