If you have individual major medical coverage and you move to a new area, you may find that your current health plan is no longer available or that there are new qualified health plans you might be interested in. Not to worry – you can purchase a new plan. Moving to a new area gives you a special enrollment opportunity in the individual market.

What you should know about your options:

• The special enrollment opportunity lasts for 60 days and applies to both Marketplace plans (purchased through Healthcare.gov) and plans purchased outside the Marketplace (off exchange).
• The special enrollment period is only available to individuals who had minimum essential coverage for at least one day in the last 60 days.
• If you qualify for a premium tax credit, you should purchase a Marketplace plan.
• If you do not qualify for a premium tax credit, you should purchase a plan outside the Marketplace. However, you may want to consider some other options first.
• If you’re moving because you’re starting a new job, you may have employer-sponsored health coverage available through your new job. If so, that will likely be your best option.
• If you are self-employed and have a partner or an employee, you may qualify for a small group plan. You may also qualify if you’re a sole proprietor, are married, and file a joint tax return.
• If you are relatively healthy, you could also consider short-term health coverage. While it is not guaranteed issue, does not cover pre-existing conditions, and does not satisfy the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate, it does provide comprehensive coverage at a much lower price than an individual major medical policy.