Signing up for ACA (Affordable Care Act) health insurance provides access to quality coverage, and many individuals may qualify for $0 or low-cost plans based on income and household size. While Open Enrollment typically happens once a year, certain situations may apply that make you eligible for a Special Enrollment Period, allowing you to sign up outside the standard window. It’s a flexible and affordable way for many to get the healthcare coverage they need.
What Is ACA Open Enrollment?
ACA Enrollment—short for the Affordable Care Act enrollment—happens once a year and allows Americans to sign up for health insurance or make changes to their existing plan. It’s the one time each year (unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period) when anyone can enroll in a plan through the health insurance marketplace.
When Is the ACA Open Enrollment Period?
For most states that use the federal healthcare.gov platform, the open enrollment period typically runs from November 1 through January 15 each year. If you want your coverage to begin on January 1, you must enroll by December 15. Always double-check deadlines for your specific state, especially if your state has its own healthcare exchange.
How to Sign Up for ACA Health Insurance
Signing up is easier than ever, and there are several ways you can enroll.
- Online at HealthCare.gov
- By phone through the Marketplace Call Center
- Through an in-person assister or licensed agent
- By mail with a paper application
Whether you’re enrolling for the first time or switching plans, the health care exchange open enrollment period gives you access to a wide range of plans that may include subsidies, depending on your income.
What You Need to Enroll
To sign up for health insurance marketplace coverage, make sure you have a few key things.
- Social Security numbers (or document numbers for legal immigrants)
- Employer and income information
- Current health coverage details (if any)
- Information about household members
Having this ready ahead of time helps streamline your ACA sign-up process.
Why Enroll Through the Health Insurance Marketplace?
The ACA Marketplace is designed to help Americans get quality coverage regardless of their health history or current health status.
Affordable Plans with Subsidies
Based on your income, you may qualify for premium tax credits or cost-sharing reductions, making your monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs much more affordable.
Coverage for Essential Health Benefits
Every plan covers essential services.
- Doctor visits
- Hospital stays
- Prescription drugs
- Mental health care
- Preventive services
- Maternity and newborn care
Protection from Being Denied Coverage
Pre-existing conditions won’t prevent you from getting insured through the ACA health care exchange.
Don’t Miss the Healthcare.gov Open Enrollment Deadline
If you miss the open enrollment period healthcare.gov offers, you could be left uninsured or forced to wait until next year—unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to life events like losing other coverage, getting married, or having a baby.
Quick Reminder
- Enroll by December 15 for coverage starting January 1
- Last day to enroll is January 15
Waiting until the last minute could lead to higher call volumes and website traffic, so it’s wise to sign up for health insurance today.
Need Help? Assistance Is Available
There are certified navigators and agents who can walk you through your ACA sign up, help you compare plans, and answer your questions—often at no cost to you.
- Visit localhelp.healthcare.gov to find assistance near you
- Call 1-800-318-2596 for 24/7 help in multiple languages
Take Control of Your Health Coverage Today
Don’t let this opportunity slip by. The ACA enrollment period is your best chance to get the health insurance you need at a price you can afford. Whether you’re self-employed, recently unemployed, or just need better coverage, visit HealthCare.gov and sign up for health insurance marketplace coverage today.