What Is a Special Enrollment Period?

A Special Enrollment Period is a limited time outside the yearly Open Enrollment Period when you may be able to enroll in a health insurance plan. You usually need a qualifying life event to use this option.

Common qualifying events include losing health coverage, moving, getting married, turning 26 and losing parent coverage, having a baby, adopting a child, or losing Medicaid or CHIP.

Lost Job or Employer Insurance

If you recently lost employer health insurance, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. This can happen after a job loss, job change, reduced work hours, or when your employer stops offering health coverage.

You may need a letter from your employer or insurance company showing the date your coverage ended.

Moving to Florida

If you moved to Florida or moved to a new county within Florida, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if new health plans are available in your new area.

You may need proof of your new address, such as a lease, utility bill, mortgage document, or driver’s license.

Turning 26 and Losing Coverage

If you are turning 26 and losing coverage under your parent’s health insurance plan, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. This allows you to compare Obamacare plans and choose coverage based on your income, doctors, prescriptions, and budget.

Marriage Special Enrollment

Getting married may allow you and your spouse to enroll in or change health insurance outside Open Enrollment. You may need a marriage certificate as proof.

Medicaid Loss Special Enrollment

If you lost Florida Medicaid or CHIP coverage, you may qualify for Obamacare through a Special Enrollment Period. You may also qualify for income-based savings depending on your household size and yearly income.

Keep your Medicaid or CHIP termination notice because it may be needed as proof.

Special Enrollment Deadline

Many Special Enrollment Periods have a limited time window. In many cases, you must choose a plan within 60 days of your qualifying life event. Some Medicaid or CHIP loss situations may have different timing.

It is best to apply as soon as possible so you do not miss your enrollment window.

Why a Special Enrollment Request May Be Denied

A Special Enrollment request may be denied if:

• You missed the deadline
• You selected the wrong qualifying event
• Your documents were missing
• Your document date does not match your application
• You voluntarily canceled your plan
• Your address, name, or coverage details do not match

A licensed Florida insurance agent can help you avoid common application mistakes.

Florida Examples

Example 1: A Miami-Dade County resident loses job-based insurance and needs an Obamacare plan.

Example 2: A family moves to Orange County, Florida and needs coverage in their new area.

Example 3: A Broward County resident loses Medicaid and wants to check Marketplace plan options.

Example 4: A Palm Beach County young adult turns 26 and needs their own health insurance plan.

Frequently Asked Questions