What is Open Enrollment (OEP)?
Open Enrollment is the annual period when individuals can sign up for, renew, or change their health insurance plans. During this time, health insurance providers must accept all applicants, regardless of pre-existing conditions or health history. If you miss Open Enrollment, you typically cannot enroll in a new plan unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).
2025 & 2026 Open Enrollment Dates
| Year | Open Enrollment Start | Open Enrollment End | Coverage Start Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | November 1, 2024 | January 15, 2025 | January 1 or February 1, 2025 (depends on sign-up date) |
| 2026 | November 1, 2025 | January 15, 2026 | January 1 or February 1, 2026 (depends on sign-up date) |
📌 Important:
- Enroll by December 15 for coverage starting January 1.
- Enroll after December 15 but before January 15 for coverage starting February 1.
💡 Some states have extended Open Enrollment periods beyond federal deadlines. Check your state-specific enrollment dates below.
State-Specific Open Enrollment Periods
Some states run their own health insurance exchanges and may have different Open Enrollment dates:
- California: November 1 – January 31
- Idaho: October 15 – December 15
- Massachusetts: November 1 – January 23
- New Jersey: November 1 – January 31
- New York: November 1 – January 31
- Rhode Island: November 1 – January 31
- Washington, D.C.: November 1 – January 31
💡 Check your state's official health exchange for the most accurate dates.
What If You Miss Open Enrollment? (Special Enrollment Periods - SEP)
If you don’t enroll during Open Enrollment, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you experience a major life event, such as:
✅ Marriage or divorce
✅ Having a baby or adopting a child
✅ Losing existing health coverage (e.g., job loss, aging out of a parent’s plan)
✅ Moving to a new state or coverage area
✅ Becoming a U.S. citizen
✅ Changes in income affecting eligibility for subsidies or Medicaid
💡 How long do I have to enroll during SEP?
- Usually 60 days from the qualifying event to apply for new coverage.
Medicare & Employer Open Enrollment Periods
Medicare Open Enrollment
- October 15 – December 7 each year
- Applies to Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)
Employer-Sponsored Insurance Enrollment
- Employers set their own annual enrollment periods (usually in the fall).
- Check with your HR department for specific dates.
What Are Your Options If You Miss Open Enrollment & Don't Qualify for SEP?
If you miss Open Enrollment and don’t qualify for SEP, you can explore these alternatives:
🏥 Short-Term Health Plans – Provides temporary coverage, but may not cover pre-existing conditions.
💰 Health Sharing Plans – An alternative to traditional insurance where members share medical expenses.
🏛 Medicaid or CHIP – Low-income individuals and families can enroll year-round if eligible.
How to Prepare for Open Enrollment
🔹 Mark Your Calendar – Set reminders for key deadlines.
🔹 Review Your Current Plan – Compare benefits, costs, and network providers.
🔹 Gather Necessary Documents – Income info, tax returns, and proof of eligibility (if needed).
🔹 Compare Plans & Subsidies – Use HealthCare.gov to check available options.