The start of a new year often brings fresh goals—better health, smarter finances, and improved coverage. But what if you realized after January 1 that your health insurance doesn’t include dental or vision benefits? The good news is that you may still be able to add dental and vision coverage even after the New Year.
Let’s break down how it works and what your options are.
Dental and Vision Coverage: Separate From Health Insurance
Unlike medical insurance, dental and vision plans are often sold as standalone policies. That means they typically don’t follow the same strict Open Enrollment rules as health insurance.
In many cases, you can:
- Enroll in a dental plan
- Add vision coverage
- Switch plans
at any time during the year, without needing a Qualifying Life Event.
When You Can Add Dental and Vision After January 1
Here are the most common scenarios where enrolling after the New Year is possible:
1. Standalone Dental and Vision Plans
Most private insurers allow year-round enrollment for standalone dental and vision coverage. Coverage often begins as soon as the first of the following month after enrollment.
2. Employer-Sponsored Plans
If your dental and vision benefits are offered through an employer, you’ll usually need to wait until your company’s next Open Enrollment period—unless you experience a Qualifying Life Event (QLE), such as:
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth or adoption of a child
- Loss of other coverage
3. Marketplace Plans
Dental coverage for children is considered an essential health benefit under Marketplace plans, but adult dental and vision coverage is optional. Depending on your state and plan availability, you may be able to purchase a standalone dental or vision plan outside of Open Enrollment.
What to Know Before You Enroll
Before adding coverage, keep these factors in mind:
- Waiting periods: Some dental plans require a waiting period for major services like crowns or orthodontics.
- Provider networks: Always confirm that your dentist or eye doctor is in-network.
- Coverage limits: Dental plans often have annual maximums, and vision plans may limit how often you can replace glasses or contacts.
- Bundling options: Some insurers offer discounts when you bundle dental and vision together.
Is It Worth Adding Dental and Vision Coverage?
Absolutely. Regular dental cleanings and eye exams don’t just protect your smile and eyesight—they can help catch serious health issues early, saving you money and stress down the road. Even basic plans can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for routine care.
Final Thoughts
If you skipped dental or vision coverage during Open Enrollment, it’s not too late to protect your health. Many dental and vision plans can be added after the New Year, giving you flexibility and peace of mind.
👉 Need help finding the right dental or vision plan? Message us today to explore your options and get covered with confidence.
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