Special Enrollment Periods: When Can You Enroll Outside Open Enrollment?

Life Happens — Coverage Can Too

If you missed the annual open enrollment window, you may still be able to enroll in a Marketplace plan through a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). SEPs are triggered by qualifying life events.

Qualifying Life Events

You may qualify for an SEP if you experience any of the following:

• Loss of health coverage — losing job-based insurance, aging off a parent's plan, or losing Medicaid eligibility
• Changes in household — getting married, having a baby, adopting a child, or getting divorced
• Changes in residence — moving to a new ZIP code or county with different plan options
• Changes in income — income changes that affect your subsidy eligibility
• Other events — gaining citizenship, leaving incarceration, or certain exceptional circumstances

Important Timing Rules

You typically have 60 days from the date of the qualifying event to enroll in a new plan. Don't wait — once the window closes, you'll have to wait until the next open enrollment period.

What to Do Next

1. Gather documentation — proof of your qualifying event (loss of coverage letter, marriage certificate, lease, etc.)
2. Contact a licensed agent — we can help you verify eligibility and compare plans
3. Enroll within 60 days — coverage typically begins the first of the month after you select a plan

Not sure if your situation qualifies? Call us — we'll help you figure it out at no cost.