ACA eligibility and qualifying life events

Find out if you qualify, what life changes count and what to do next.

Page last updated on: 4/21/26

Learn when you’re eligible for ACA health coverage and when you can enroll. These articles explain qualifying life events, Open Enrollment, Special Enrollment Periods and what to do if you lose job‑based coverage, Medicaid or COBRA.

man in apron working on laptop and paper in bakery

Use our Open Enrollment Period checklist to familiarize yourself with important factors that will make choosing the right ACA plan easier for you and your family.

Mom and dad helping young child unload moving boxes

Learn about factors to consider when selecting a health plan during a Special Enrollment Period.

older man standing in field by his tractor

Wondering how to get health coverage if you lose your job? Losing job-based coverage is a qualifying life event and you may be entitled to a Special Enrollment Period.

Couple cooking and food prepping in the kitchen

When you lose coverage through COBRA, you're eligible to select a new Individual and family plan during a Special Enrollment Period.

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You may be worried about keeping health coverage if you lose Medicaid eligibility. Learn about affordable coverage through a Special Enrollment Period.

Students sitting and reading on the grass

For young adults just starting out, health coverage options can feel overwhelming. Learn about affordable and flexible coverage options before turning 26.

pregnant mother with her young daughter hugging mom's belly

Having a baby or adopting is considered a qualifying life event that allows you to change your health plan during a Special Enrollment Period.

Smiling bride looking up at her groom

Getting married, divorced or legally separated is a qualifying event that allows you to change health plans through a Special Enrollment Period.

older smiling man working in coffee shop as barista

There's a lot of excitement around retirement, but health plan coverage is something you will want to plan for until you turn 65 and can receive coverage through Medicare.

Sitting on edge of a bed, mom arranging hair of daughter who is dressed as a ballerina.

Learn more about MyPriority health plans and how financial subsidies can make health coverage more affordable to those who qualify.