CoverageCo

Timing

When you can actually enroll

You can't sign up just any day of the year — unless life changes. Here's how Open Enrollment and Special Enrollment Periods work.

Open Enrollment: the main window

For most people, the time to enroll or switch plans is the annual Open Enrollment Period. On the federal Marketplace this generally runs from November 1 to January 15, though some states run their own exchanges with different dates.

Coverage start dates depend on when you enroll during that window. Dates can shift year to year, so confirm the current year's deadlines.

Special Enrollment: when life changes

Outside Open Enrollment, you can still enroll if you have a "qualifying life event." That opens a Special Enrollment Period — usually about 60 days from the event — to pick a plan.

  • Losing other coverage (a job change, aging off a parent's plan, etc.)
  • Getting married
  • Having or adopting a child
  • Moving to a new area with different plans
  • Other changes in household or eligibility

Not sure if you qualify right now?

Use the quick checker below to see whether a recent life change might open a window for you. If it does, a licensed agent can help you enroll before the clock runs out.

Open Enrollment is closed — for now

Can You Still Enroll Today?

Open Enrollment runs each year from November 1 to January 15. Outside that window, a major life change can open a 60-day Special Enrollment Period — so you don’t have to wait. Tell us what’s changed.

Next Open Enrollment begins November 1, 2026.

Has anything changed recently?

Eligibility and Special Enrollment Periods depend on your specific situation and are confirmed at enrollment. This tool is a guide, not a determination.

Talk it through

Have a real person explain your options.