I Missed My State’s Open Enrollment Deadline.

Can I Still Get Healthcare Coverage?

Individuals who have missed the enrollment deadline for health insurance in their state may still be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). This SEP allows individuals to apply for health insurance if they have experienced a qualifying life event. Examples of qualifying life events include marriage, birth of a child, loss of health coverage, and permanent move to a new area.

If you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), you have a 60-day window to enroll in a health insurance plan. However, if you fail to take advantage of this opportunity within the allotted timeframe, you will need to wait until the Open Enrollment Period (OEP) to enroll in an individual health insurance policy for 2023. A list of qualifying life events that may entitle you to an SEP can be found here.

Individuals who missed the 2022 Open Enrollment Period (OEP) in their state and do not qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) may consider applying for a short-term health insurance plan. Short-term health insurance coverage can be purchased outside of OEP for up to 364 days, with the potential for reapplication for up to 36 months in most states. These plans may be a suitable, temporary option for those who are healthy, as they do not cover pre-existing conditions like Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans.

If an individual does not meet the criteria for a Special Enrollment Period and opts not to apply for a short-term health plan, they will be required to wait until the Open Enrollment period for 2023 commences in the autumn of 2022.

Health Plan Advocates can assist you in determining your eligibility for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) and identifying an individual health plan that meets your requirements. You can shop, compare, and enroll in a health plan online or contact us at (800) 940-0633 for further assistance.