When to Enroll in ACA Insurance if You’re Losing Coverage Soon
Losing health insurance can be a stressful experience, especially if you’re not sure how to get new coverage. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) provides a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for people who lose their health insurance, and it’s important to know when you’re eligible to enroll and how to do so.
What is a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)?
A Special Enrollment Period (SEP) is a time outside of the Open Enrollment Period when you can enroll in health insurance due to a qualifying life event. Losing health insurance is one of the qualifying life events that allows you to enroll in a new plan through the ACA Marketplace.
When Can I Enroll in a New Plan?
If you’re losing health insurance, you have 60 days before or after the date your coverage ends to enroll in a new plan through the SEP. For example, if your current coverage ends on May 1st, you can enroll in a new plan as early as March 1st or as late as June 30th.
How to Enroll in a New Plan
To enroll in a new health insurance plan through the SEP, you can:
Visit HealthCare.gov and create an account.
Call the Marketplace call center at 1-800-318-2596.
Contact a licensed health insurance agent or broker.
What Happens if I Miss the SEP Deadline?
If you miss the SEP deadline, you will not be able to enroll in a new health insurance plan until the next Open Enrollment Period, which runs from November 1st to January 15th. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as if you experience another qualifying life event, such as getting married or having a baby.
Conclusion
Losing health insurance can be a stressful experience, but it’s important to know that you have options for getting new coverage. The ACA provides a Special Enrollment Period for people who lose their health insurance, and it’s important to know when you’re eligible to enroll and how to do so. If you’re losing health insurance soon, contact a licensed health insurance agent or broker to learn more about your options and to help you enroll in a new plan.
Question? or Need a Free Quote?
Contact Us
Reach out to us for free expert insurance advice and solutions. We will help you solve ACA (Obamacare) related questions and problems. Will contact you within 24 hours of receiving your message.