The Open Enrollment Period (OEP) is the time each year when individuals and families can enroll in health coverage or make changes to their current plan. For ACA health plans, it typically runs from Nov. 1 to Dec. 15, with coverage beginning Jan. 1 if you enroll on time. If you miss the deadline, you may need to wait until the next Open Enrollment Period unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) due to a life event.
Key facts (at a glance)
What it is: The yearly time to enroll in health coverage or change your current plan.
Typical timing (ACA plans): Nov. 1 to Dec. 15.
Coverage start date (most cases): Enroll by Dec. 15 for coverage to begin Jan. 1.
If you miss the deadline: You’ll usually need to wait until the next OEP unless you qualify for an SEP due to a life event.
Who should shop: People who buy their own health insurance rather than getting coverage through an employer.
Where you can enroll: Through the Health Insurance Marketplace® or a private insurer like Priority Health.
When is Open Enrollment?
For ACA health plans, the Open Enrollment Period (OEP) typically runs from Nov. 1 to Dec. 15. In most cases, if you enroll by Dec. 15, your coverage begins Jan. 1.
If you miss OEP, you may need to wait until the next enrollment period unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).
Who should shop during OEP?
Open Enrollment is for people who buy their own health insurance rather than getting coverage through an employer. It may apply to you if you are:
- Buying coverage for yourself or your family
- Self-employed
- Uninsured
- Changing from one ACA plan to another
- Looking for coverage that better fits your health needs for next year
If you think you may qualify for Medicaid, you may have other coverage options available outside of Open Enrollment.
Why should I review my plan every year?
Even if you already have health coverage, it’s a good idea to review your plan during Open Enrollment. Costs, benefits, provider networks and prescription coverage can change from year to year, and your health needs may change too. Reviewing your options can help you make sure your plan still fits your budget and care needs for the year ahead.
How can I prepare before Open Enrollment starts?
Before Open Enrollment begins, take a few steps to make the process easier:
- If you already have ACA health coverage, make sure your contact information is up to date on the Health Insurance Marketplace
- Gather proof of income to check whether you qualify for subsidy savings
- Review your current health plan
- Think about your health care needs for next year
- Make a list of your doctors, prescriptions and preferred hospitals so you can compare plans more easily
How do I choose a health plan?
When comparing health plans, focus on the factors that affect both cost and access to care:
- Monthly premium
- Deductible and other out-of-pocket costs
- Provider network
- Prescription drug coverage
- Plan benefits and features
- Whether you qualify for subsidy savings
Understanding common health insurance terms can also help you compare plans more confidently.
Can I get financial help?
Many people who buy their own health insurance qualify for financial help that lowers their monthly premiums. Eligibility depends on factors such as household size and income.
If you’re shopping for ACA coverage, it’s worth checking whether you qualify for subsidy savings before you enroll. When you explore a MyPriority plan, we’ll automatically check your eligibility and let you know right away if you can save.
How do I enroll in health coverage?
You can enroll in ACA health coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace or a private insurer like Priority Health. Use our Open Enrollment checklist to make sure you have the information you need before you shop and enroll.
See the OEP checklist.
What if I miss the deadline to enroll?
If you miss Open Enrollment, you’ll usually need to wait until the next OEP to enroll in ACA coverage. The main exception is if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) because of a life event, such as losing other coverage, getting married, having a baby or moving.
If you miss an SEP deadline or don’t submit required documentation in time, you may also need to wait until the next Open Enrollment Period. Missing a deadline can leave you without coverage for months and may lead to unexpected medical costs or fewer coverage options.
Questions? We can help.
Call toll-free at 844.590.0836 (TYY 711). Priority Health plan experts can help you:
- Understand enrollment deadlines and SEP requirements
- Compare plans and prices
- Check whether you qualify for subsidy savings
- Enroll in a plan that fits your needs