Can I buy or change private health plan coverage outside of Open Enrollment?

In general, you can have a special enrollment period (SEP) to sign up for Marketplace coverage during the year, other than during Open Enrollment period, if you have a qualifying event. Some examples of qualifying events include marriage, gaining a dependent, or loss of employment. Only one person in a household applying for coverage or financial assistance through the Marketplace must qualify for an SEP in order for the entire household to qualify for the SEP. Click here for details on the types of events that would qualify you for an SEP and the timing and coverage effective dates for each event.

Note that some triggering events will only qualify you for an SEP in the health insurance Marketplace; they do not apply in the outside market.

States generally have flexibility to expand special enrollment opportunities for consumers. If you reside in a state that operates its own Marketplace, check with your state Marketplace for more information.