How long after I enroll in a plan will coverage take effect?

During Open Enrollment in HealthCare.gov and some other states, if you enroll in a private health insurance plan by December 15 and make your first premium payment by the due date specified by your plan, your new health coverage will start January 1. If you sign up after December 15, your coverage will begin on February 1.

If you sign up for a Marketplace plan during a special enrollment period, your coverage will usually take effect on the first day of the month after you select your plan, even if you made your selection after the 15th of the month. So, for example, if you will lose coverage starting February 5 and select your Marketplace plan on January 29, your coverage will begin on February 1.

These dates may differ in states that operate their own Marketplace. Check with your state-based Marketplace for more information if you live in one of these states.