Open Enrollment

Family reviewing health insurance enrollment options
Key Dates

When Is the Open Enrollment Period?

The Open Enrollment period for ACA marketplace plans generally runs from November 1 through January 15 (in most states; a small number of state-run marketplaces set their own dates). Enroll by December 15 and your coverage begins on January 1.

Outside of this window, you can only enroll in or change an ACA/Obamacare plan if you experience a Qualifying Life Event — otherwise you'll need to wait for the next Open Enrollment period. If you already have an ACA plan, it will typically renew automatically, but it's worth reviewing your options every year since plans, prices, and subsidies can change.

When Does Coverage Begin?

If you enroll during Open Enrollment, your coverage start date depends on when you sign up:

  • Enroll during the first 15 days of the month — coverage begins the first day of the following month.
  • Enroll between the 16th and the last day of the month — coverage begins the first day of the second following month.

A licensed America's Health Center agent can confirm your exact start date and connect you to plans available in your area — compare options and find the best coverage for the lowest rate.

Couple discussing health coverage start dates with an agent

What Is a Qualifying Life Event?

You're very likely eligible for a Special Enrollment Period outside the normal window if you:

  • Lost health coverage in the last 60 days, or expect to lose it within the next 60 days.
  • Got divorced and lost health insurance as a result.
  • Got married.
  • Gave birth or adopted a child, or had a foster child placed in your home.
  • Had a death in your household that affected your coverage.

Think You Qualify? Let's Check Your Options.