Missed the Open Enrollment Deadline? Don’t Worry—You Still Have Coverage Options!
If you missed the January 15th deadline for the 2025 Health Insurance Marketplace Open Enrollment, don’t panic—there’s still hope. You may still be eligible to get covered through other options that many people overlook. Whether your life recently changed or your income fits certain criteria, there are paths to health coverage outside of the typical enrollment window.
Your Safety Net: The Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
Life doesn’t always stick to a calendar—and luckily, neither does health coverage. If you’ve experienced a qualifying life event, you might be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). This gives you a chance to enroll in or update a Marketplace health plan outside of the standard Open Enrollment window.
You could qualify for an SEP if:
- Your income falls within certain limits.
- You’ve recently experienced a life change such as:
- Losing job-based coverage
- Getting married or divorced
- Having or adopting a child
- Relocating to a new ZIP code
- Losing eligibility for Medicaid or CHIP
- Becoming a member of a federally recognized Tribe or an ANCSA corporation shareholder
If any of these sound like you, you don’t have to wait for the next Open Enrollment period (which runs annually from November 1 to January 15). You can apply today.
How to Know If You Qualify for an SEP
Step one: Check if your situation fits the SEP guidelines. You can do this by visiting the official Marketplace website or calling their customer service line. They’ll walk you through your eligibility and help you get started with an application.
Don’t Qualify for an SEP? Medicaid and CHIP Might Be the Answer
Even if you don’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you may still be eligible for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). These programs offer free or low-cost health coverage and are available year-round—no enrollment window required.
Who qualifies? These programs are designed for:
- Low-income individuals and families
- Pregnant women
- Children
- Seniors
- People with disabilities
Thanks to Medicaid expansion in many states, even more low-income adults can now qualify. If you’re unsure where you stand, it’s worth checking—it could save you thousands.
What’s Included with Medicaid and CHIP?
These programs offer robust health benefits, such as:
- Hospital stays and emergency care
- Doctor visits and specialist care
- Prescription drugs and mental health services
- Maternity care and newborn coverage
- Dental and vision care for children in many states
You can apply for Medicaid or CHIP at any time during the year. The application is straightforward, and you’ll find guidance online or through local health departments.
In a Nutshell: Missed Open Enrollment? You’ve Still Got Options
If the Open Enrollment deadline slipped by, don’t lose hope. Between Special Enrollment Periods, Medicaid, and CHIP, you still have several ways to get the coverage you need in 2025. Take action now so you and your loved ones can stay protected and healthy all year long.
Need help applying or figuring out if you qualify? Visit your state’s Medicaid or CHIP website, or talk to a certified agent today. Coverage is still within reach—you just need to know where to look!