Open Enrollment runs Nov 1 – Jan 15. But about 1 in 5 enrollees sign up outside that window — through a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). Here's how to qualify.
Qualifying Life Events That Trigger SEP
- Loss of health coverage — losing job-based coverage, COBRA expiration, aging off parent's plan, losing Medicaid
- Household changes — marriage, divorce, having or adopting a baby, death in family
- Moving — to a new ZIP code or county with different plans available
- Income changes — significant change that affects subsidy eligibility
- Citizenship — gaining US citizenship or lawful status
- Errors or special circumstances — marketplace error, exceptional circumstances
How Long Is the SEP Window?
Generally 60 days from the qualifying event. Marriage SEP starts on wedding date. Birth SEP starts on baby's birthday. Loss-of-coverage SEP starts up to 60 days BEFORE the loss (so you can have continuous coverage).
Documentation You'll Need
- Marriage certificate, divorce decree
- Birth certificate, adoption paperwork
- Letter from previous employer about coverage loss
- New lease or utility bill showing new address
- Pay stubs showing income change
Common Mistakes
- Waiting too long — 60 days passes fast. Apply immediately.
- Voluntarily dropping coverage — usually doesn't qualify (must be involuntary loss).
- Not submitting docs — your application will be pended until docs arrive.
Had a life event? Our agents handle SEP applications free — including the documentation. Get help in 60 seconds →