Whether you’ve lost your job-based plan, welcomed a new baby, or moved to a different state, you may be eligible to enroll in a new health plan even if it’s outside the typical open enrollment period. These moments are called qualifying life events, and they open a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) — usually giving you 60 days to find a new plan.
Let’s break down the most common qualifying events:
1. Losing Health Coverage from Your Employer or the State
If you’ve recently lost health coverage because you:
- Were laid off
- Lost eligibility for Medicaid or CHIP
- Turned 26 and aged out of your parents’ plan
You qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Don’t wait — you only have 60 days from the date your coverage ends to sign up for a new plan.
2. Having a Baby or Adopting a Child
Congratulations! A new addition to the family qualifies as a life event. When you:
- Give birth
- Adopt a child
- Gain a dependent through foster care
You can apply for coverage immediately. Even better? Your new plan can be backdated to the day of birth or adoption, ensuring your baby has coverage right away.
3. Moving Out of State or Within the State
A permanent move to a new ZIP code or county — especially one that affects your insurance options — triggers a Special Enrollment Period. This includes:
- Moving to a new state
- Moving to or from a shelter or transitional housing
Just make sure you had qualifying coverage for at least one day in the 60 days before your move, or you’re moving from a foreign country.
4. Divorce or Legal Separation
Going through a divorce is difficult enough without having to worry about your health coverage. If you lose insurance because of a:
- Divorce or separation that ends your coverage under a spouse’s plan
You qualify for SEP. Time to find coverage that supports you in this next chapter.
5. Pregnancy (Depending on Your State)
Some states now consider pregnancy itself a qualifying life event (not just the birth). If you live in a state that recognizes this:
You can apply for coverage once you find out you’re expecting, giving you more time to get prenatal care and support.
Don’t Miss the 60-Day Window
For most qualifying events, you only have 60 days to enroll in a new plan. Miss it, and you might have to wait until the next Open Enrollment period.
Need Help Navigating Your Options?
Whether you’re unsure if you qualify or need help picking a plan that fits your needs, don’t stress. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to explore your health insurance options and get covered fast.
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