Special enrollment period
Learn about special enrollment periods and how to qualify for one
What is a special enrollment period, or SEP?
Generally, you can only enroll in a health plan during open enrollment. After the Open Enrollment Period, you're locked in to your health plan unless you've had a major life change or "qualifying life event" (like the birth of a child, marriage or losing your health coverage). Your life change or qualifying event allows you to enroll in a new health plan during what's called a special enrollment period, or SEP. If you qualify for an SEP, you're allowed to change your health plan or apply for a new one outside of the open enrollment period. You'll need to submit proof of the qualifying life event with your application and apply within 60 days of your qualifying life event.
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I qualify for special enrollment. How do I enroll?
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What counts as a qualifying life event?
Voluntarily canceling other health coverage or being terminated for not paying your premium is not considered loss of coverage. Neither is losing a plan that does not carry minimum essential coverage.
Need more information before you enroll? Download these helpful guides to individual and family plans and dental coverage.