Getting health insurance depends on being able to enroll during certain windows and under specific conditions. Here are a few examples:
- Open enrollment for ACA Marketplace coverage in California runs from November 1 through January 31, since California is one of a handful of states that extend their deadlines beyond the standard federal cutoff.
- For Medicare, the Annual Enrollment Period runs October 15 through December 7 each year.
- If you have employer-sponsored coverage, your employer sets its own open enrollment period, typically in the fall.
These timelines can be confusing to track, which is why it helps to work with your agent at Reinas Insurance Agency Inc. in Pasadena, CA.
Why Open Enrollment Matters
Miss the open enrollment window, and you may have to wait until the following year to sign up, unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. If you’ve missed a deadline, ask your agent whether special enrollment might apply to your situation.
Qualifying for Special Enrollment
To qualify for special enrollment, you typically need to experience a major life event, which generally gives you 60 days from that event to enroll in coverage.
Common qualifying events include getting married or divorced, having or adopting a child, moving to a new state, and the death of someone on your health insurance plan.
Losing existing coverage can also qualify you for special enrollment, including losing Medicaid benefits or returning to the U.S. after living abroad.
If you’re on Medicare, you may also qualify for extra assistance. Talk with your agent about Medicare Advantage options, which could help reduce prescription drug costs or expand your coverage.
Need help navigating enrollment periods? Work with your agent at Reinas Insurance Agency Inc. in Pasadena, CA, for all your health insurance needs.
