What is Open Enrollment?

Open Enrollment occurs each year from November 1st to December 15th.  This is the time period that people have the opportunity to enroll in a health insurance plan available on the health exchange marketplace.  Most people can access the health exchange marketplace at the healthcare.gov website.  

During open enrollment, people can enroll in an available health insurance plan in their area with coverage beginning on January 1.  Price of these plans is determined by zip code, age, number of people on the plan, and your expected family income for the next year.  Your expected family income could allow you to receive a subsidy to help pay the monthly premiums.  

If you miss open enrollment, then you may only be able to enroll in a plan if you qualify for a special enrollment period. A few examples of life events that may qualify you for a special enrollment period: losing qualified health coverage from your employer, moving, getting married, having a baby, or adopting.  However, you can qualify for Medicaid or Chip anytime of year.