Open Enrollment Period:
November 1 – December 31
This is the only time you can sign up or make changes unless you qualify for special enrollment due to certain life events.
- Applications submitted by December 15 typically start January 1.
- If you enroll between December 16–31, your coverage may start February 1 (depending on policy and region).
Bottom line: Don’t wait until the last minute.
Who Needs to Enroll?
You should enroll (or update your plan) if:
- You don’t currently have health insurance
- Your employer doesn’t offer coverage
- Your current plan no longer meets your needs
- Your income or household size changed
- You turned 26 and aged off a parent’s plan
- You recently moved or changed states
If you already have coverage, this is the perfect time to review:
- Premium Cost
- Deductible
- Copays
- Provider Network
- Prescription Coverage
Even if your plan auto-renews, reviewing your options could save you money.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you miss Open Enrollment, you cannot get coverage unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).
You may qualify for SEP if you’ve experienced:
- Marriage or divorce
- Having or adopting a child
- Moving to a new residence/state
- Loss of employer-sponsored coverage
- Turning 26 and losing parental coverage
- Loss of Medicaid/CHIP eligibility
If none of these apply, you’ll need to wait until the next Open Enrollment — meaning you may go uninsured for the year.
Don’t risk that.
How to Choose the Right Plan
When comparing plans, pay attention to:
| Term | What It Means | Why It Matters |
| Premium | What you pay every month | Lower premium usually = higher deductible |
| Deductible | What you pay before coverage starts | Good if you rarely go to the doctor |
| Copays | What you pay per visit | Helpful if you go to the doctor often |
| Out-of-Pocket Max | The most you’ll pay in a year | After this—insurance covers everything |
Tip: Don’t just choose the lowest monthly payment — choose what fits your health needs + financial comfort.
Pro Tip: Work With a Licensed Agent (for Free)
Did you know working with a licensed insurance agent does not cost you anything?
An agent:
- Helps you compare plans side-by-side
- Shows your subsidy/discount options
- Ensures your doctors and medications are covered
- Submits and monitors your application
- Helps with paperwork and renewals
This saves time, confusion, and avoids costly mistakes.
Take Action Before It’s Too Late
Open Enrollment is here right now — and once the deadline passes, so does your chance to change or get coverage.
- Review your options
- Ask questions
- Get matched with a plan that fits your needs
- Enroll before December 31
Your health is worth it.
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