When you’re choosing health insurance, it’s important to know when (and how) you can change plans. Normally, you can enroll in health insurance or switch plans during the Open Enrollment Period (OEP). But when is Open Enrollment, and how does Open Enrollment work? We consider these questions below.
What Is Open Enrollment?
OEP is the one time of year when most Americans can choose health insurance, whether it’s enrolling in a new plan or switching to a different policy.
What is the point of Open Enrollment, though? It’s simple – the OEP gives people a chance each year to enroll in a policy that best reflects their changing health needs. Without an OEP, many people would have insufficient coverage in place and no way to change it.
When Is Open Enrollment 2023?
Helpfully, the dates stay roughly the same each year.
In most states, the OEP for 2023 started on November 1, 2022. If you want your plan to start on January 1, 2023, you have until December 15, 2022 to change plans or enroll in a new one. Once you enroll or change plans (and pay your first monthly premium), your cover starts.
If you missed the initial deadline, you have options. You have until January 15, 2023 to enroll or change policies for this coming year. Once you pay the premium, cover starts from February 1, 2023.
It’s not too late to qualify for Open Enrollment in 2023. Contact us for quotes or if you need help choosing a health insurance plan.
Annual Open Enrollment for Medicare
If you’re on Medicare, they have their own annual Open Enrollment Period (usually between October and December, or January through March if you have Medicare Advantage).
Unsure which deadline applies? Call our team for advice.
Can I Apply Outside of the Open Enrollment Period?
Yes, but only if you qualify for what’s called a “Special Enrollment Period” (SEP).
Special Enrollment Periods take into consideration how your life can change over the course of the year between Open Enrollment Periods. Just as your life changes more than once a year, so should you be able to switch health policies quickly to better suit your needs.
What triggers a SEP? You qualify if you experience a significant life event (“qualifying” event) such as:
- getting married or divorced
- moving to a new state
- turning 26
If you’re not eligible for a Special Enrollment Period, you may need to wait for Open Enrollment to come around again before you can get health insurance.
How Do I Get Ready for Open Enrollment?
Although Open Enrollment can be confusing, here’s what you can do to prepare.
- Think about your healthcare needs. Does your existing health insurance give you enough protection, or do you need a more comprehensive policy?
- Set a budget for how much you can afford to spend each month on health insurance premiums.
- Shop around for a competitive quote – don’t rush. Our team can answer any questions you have if you need extra support.
Looking for health insurance? Healthedly can help you find, compare, and enroll in the best available individual and family health plans – call on (855) 522-2201.
