Finding the right health insurance can be confusing. With different plans, premiums, deductibles, and coverage options available, it can be hard to know which choice is best for you, your family, or your business. 

Having professional guidance no matter your situation can make the process easier.

When Can You Get Health Insurance?

One of the first things you need to know before looking for health insurance is when you can enroll. There are two periods in which you can enroll depending on your situation; Open Enrollment and a Special Enrollment Period. 

Most individuals and families can only enroll through the Marketplace during Open Enrollment. In order to enroll outside of Open Enrollment, you must qualify through a special event.

What is Open Enrollment?

Open enrollment is a set period of time each year when you can enroll in, renew, or change your individual or family health insurance plan. The dates can vary by state and plan type, so it’s important to know the applicable enrollment deadlines. 

If you miss Open Enrollment and don’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you will have to wait until the next enrollment period to obtain Marketplace coverage.

What is a Special Enrollment Period?

Certain major life events may give you a Special Enrollment Period, allowing you to enroll in health insurance outside of the normal Open Enrollment window. 

Qualifying events can include:

• Losing health coverage through an employer
• Getting married or divorced
• Having a baby or adopting a child
• Moving to a new area where different health plans are available
• Losing eligibility for Medicaid or other qualifying coverage

The rules surrounding Special Enrollment Periods can be specific and you may have a limited amount of time to enroll after the qualifying event.

What if You Don’t Have a Qualifying Life Event?

If Open Enrollment has ended and you haven’t experienced a qualifying event, you generally cannot simply enroll in a Marketplace plan whenever you want. This is one reason planning ahead is important. 

However, there may be other types of health coverage with different enrollment rules and eligibility requirements. The right option depends on your circumstance, including your age, employment status, income, and current coverage.

How Can Advanced Financial Freedom Help?

Understanding when you can enroll is just as important as understanding the coverage itself. Advanced Financial Freedom can help you review your situation, understand your options, and determine what type of coverage may be appropriate. 

Whether you’re preparing for Open Enrollment, recently lost employer coverage, or have experienced another major life change, getting guidance can help you avoid missing important deadlines.

Don’t wait until you need coverage to start looking. Understanding your enrollment options in advance can help you make a more informed decision about your health insurance.

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