Open enrollment isn't the only time to get health insurance. If you have a qualifying life event, you unlock a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) — usually 60 days — to enroll or switch plans. Here are the events that count.
Loss of coverage
- Losing job-based coverage (quit, laid off, or hours cut) — see coverage after job loss.
- Aging off a parent's plan at 26.
- Losing Medicaid/CHIP eligibility.
- COBRA running out (voluntarily dropping it usually does not count).
Household changes
- Getting married.
- Having a baby, adopting, or placing a child for foster care.
- Divorce or death that changes who's on your plan.
Moving
- Moving to a new ZIP or county with different plans (a move within the same area may not qualify).
- Moving to or from school, seasonal work, or a shelter.
Other triggers
- Gaining citizenship or lawful presence.
- Certain income changes that affect subsidy eligibility.
- Errors or plan violations during enrollment.
The 60-day clock
Most SEPs give you 60 days from the event to enroll — and for some, up to 60 days before. Miss it and you may be stuck with limited options like short-term coverage until the next open enrollment. Have documentation of the event ready.
Had a life change recently? Our free tool compares plans from 50+ carriers and shows what you'd actually pay in about 60 seconds — no obligation, real answers from a licensed broker. Get your free quote →