Finding Health Insurance Outside of Open Enrollment

Open enrollment periods are the designated times each year when you can enroll in or change your health insurance plan. But what happens if you miss open enrollment or experience a life event that necessitates a change in your coverage? Don’t worry, there are still options available!

Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)

SEPs are specific periods outside of open enrollment when you can enroll in or change your health insurance plan due to a qualifying life event. These events include:

• Loss of Coverage: This includes job loss, divorce, aging off a parent’s plan, or loss of eligibility for Medicaid or CHIP.
• Marriage: Getting married allows you to enroll in a new plan or add your spouse to your existing coverage.
• Birth or Adoption: Welcoming a new child into your family opens an SEP for you.

Moving: If you move to a new area with different health insurance options, you might be eligible for an SEP.

Off-Marketplace Health Insurance Options

If you miss open enrollment and don’t qualify for an SEP, there are still options to explore outside of the Health Insurance Marketplace:

• Short-Term Plans: These plans offer temporary coverage and can be a good option if you’re between jobs or waiting for other coverage to start. However, they typically don’t cover pre-existing conditions and have limited benefits.
• COBRA: If you lose job-based coverage, you might be able to continue your employer’s plan for a limited time through COBRA, but it can be expensive.

Private Insurance: You can purchase health insurance directly from an insurance company at any time of year. However, these plans may have higher premiums and may not offer the same level of coverage as Marketplace plans.

Remember:

• Timing is Key: SEPs are time-sensitive, so acting quickly after a qualifying life event is crucial.
• Documentation: You may need to provide documentation of your qualifying life event to enroll during an SEP.
• Seek Assistance: Work with Triangle Health Advisors to help you navigate your options and find a plan that fits your needs.

Don’t let missing open enrollment leave you without health insurance coverage. Explore SEPs and off-marketplace options to find the coverage you need. Please submit a website form, or directly schedule a health insurance assessment through our calendar.