Missed Open Enrollment for Health Insurance? Here’s What to Do Next
What to Do If You Miss Open Enrollment for Health Insurance
Missing the open enrollment period for health insurance can be stressful, but you may still have options to secure coverage. Whether you need individual insurance, Medicare, or an employer-sponsored plan, here’s what you can do if you’ve missed the deadline.
1. Check If You Qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
Certain life events allow you to enroll in health insurance outside of open enrollment. These include:
Losing employer-sponsored coverage
Getting married or divorced
Having a baby or adopting a child
Moving to a new state or service area
Experiencing a significant change in income
Aging out of a parent’s plan at age 26
Becoming a U.S. citizen or lawful resident
If you qualify for an SEP, you typically have 60 days from the event to enroll in a new plan.
2. Consider Medicaid or CHIP
Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) offer low-cost or free health coverage for eligible individuals and families. Unlike private insurance, you can apply for these programs year-round.
3. Look Into Short-Term Health Insurance
Short-term health plans provide temporary coverage for unexpected medical expenses. While they may not offer the same benefits as ACA-compliant plans, they can serve as a temporary solution until the next open enrollment period.
4. Check COBRA Coverage
If you recently lost employer-sponsored insurance, you might be eligible for COBRA, which allows you to continue your previous coverage for a limited time. While COBRA can be expensive, it maintains the coverage you were used to.
5. See If You Can Enroll in Employer-Sponsored Insurance
If you have access to health insurance through an employer (your own or a spouse’s), check if they offer a mid-year enrollment option due to your circumstances.
6. Use Community Health Clinics & Discount Programs
If you're unable to obtain insurance immediately, community health centers and prescription discount programs can help manage medical costs while you wait for the next enrollment period.
7. Mark Your Calendar for the Next Open Enrollment Period
Stay prepared by setting reminders for the next open enrollment period. Most ACA marketplace plans have open enrollment from November 1 to January 15, but dates may vary by state. In California, Open Enrollment for Health Insurance is from November 1st and this year ended January 31st. It can change each year.
Need Help?
If you’re unsure about your options, working with an insurance specialist can help you find the best path forward. Contact us today for guidance on securing the coverage you need!
