How You Can Still Enroll in Obamacare After Open Enrollment

1. What Is a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)?

A Special Enrollment Period allows you to sign up for health insurance outside the usual enrollment window due to certain life changes. You typically have 60 days from the date of the qualifying event to apply for coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

2. Common Life Events That Qualify You for an SEP

You may qualify for an SEP if you’ve experienced any of the following:

• Loss of health coverage (e.g., job-based insurance, Medicaid, or COBRA)

• Marriage or divorce

• Having a baby, adopting a child, or placing a child for adoption

• Moving to a new address in a different ZIP code or county

• Change in immigration status or becoming a U.S. citizen

• Release from incarceration

• Changes in income that affect your eligibility for savings

These events must be reported promptly to ensure you meet the 60-day window.

3. Medicaid and CHIP Enrollment Is Year-Round

Even if you don’t qualify for an SEP, you or your family may be eligible for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). These programs are open for enrollment all year long and are based on household size and income. Many low-income adults, children, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities qualify for free or low-cost coverage.

4. Native Americans and Alaska Natives Have Year-Round Enrollment

If you’re a member of a federally recognized tribe, you can enroll in an ACA plan at any time during the year, not just during Open Enrollment. Plus, you may qualify for special cost-sharing reductions on Marketplace plans.

5. Low-Income SEP (for 2025)

If your household income is below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you may now qualify for a monthly SEP. That means you can enroll in a $0 premium silver plan at any time of the year, as long as you qualify for premium tax credits.

6. Enrollment Through State Exchanges

Some states that run their own marketplaces may have extended deadlines or more flexible SEP rules. States like California, New York, and Pennsylvania occasionally allow broader enrollment periods, so be sure to check with your state’s exchange for specific policies.

7. How to Get Help with Enrollment

If you believe you qualify for an SEP, don’t wait. Visit HealthCare.gov or your state’s exchange and start your application. You can also speak with a licensed agent or navigator who can guide you through the process, check your eligibility, and help you compare plans.