Open Enrollment is the main window each year to sign up for health insurance, whether through your job, the Health Insurance Marketplace, or Medicare. But if that window closes before you enroll or make changes—don’t panic.

Here are your next steps if you missed the deadline.

1. See If You Qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

You may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period if you’ve experienced a qualifying life event, such as:

  • Losing other health coverage

  • Getting married or divorced

  • Having or adopting a child

  • Moving to a new ZIP code

  • Turning 26 and aging off a parent’s plan

In most cases, you have 60 days from the event to enroll in a new plan.

2. Explore Medicaid or CHIP

You can apply for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) year-round, not just during Open Enrollment. Eligibility is based on income and family size and varies by state.

Even if you’ve been denied before, it’s worth checking again—especially if your income has changed.

3. Look Into Short-Term or Alternative Coverage

If you don’t qualify for a SEP or Medicaid, you might consider:

  • Short-term health insurance (usually for up to 12 months)

  • Fixed indemnity plans that pay set amounts for specific services

These aren’t replacements for full coverage, but they can be a temporary safety net while you wait for the next enrollment period.

4. Know When the Next Enrollment Period Starts

Mark your calendar! For Marketplace plans, Open Enrollment typically runs:

  • November 1 – January 15 in most states

Employer-sponsored plans and Medicare may have different dates, so be sure to double-check.

Final Thoughts

Missing Open Enrollment isn’t the end of the road. With the right guidance, you can still find a coverage option that fits your needs—and avoid being caught off guard if something unexpected happens.

If you need help figuring out your options, we’re here to help.