How to get health insurance outside of open enrollment

Key takeaways

• Open enrollment is the primary window of time for signing up for health insurance, but there are other options under special circumstances.
• Qualifying life events like marriage, job loss or moving can open a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) — but you need to act fast to avoid missing out.
• Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and COBRA offer chances to sign up for coverage year-round.

Did you miss your Open Enrollment Period (OEP)? Are you worried you’ll have to wait a full year to be covered with a health plan?

Missing open enrollment can feel scary, but there are several other ways to secure health insurance through specific programs and limited-time opportunities. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to get covered when life throws a surprise at you.

Life can be unpredictable, but your health insurance doesn’t have to be.

Life is full of plot twists. Maybe you lost your job. Perhaps you just moved. Maybe you got married or welcomed a new baby. Fortunately, there are many resources for those who find themselves in these situations. By exploring available health plans outside of OEP, you can secure your coverage without waiting another year.

Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

If you’ve experienced certain qualifying life events, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). SEPs are limited times outside of open enrollment when you can sign up for coverage if a qualifying life event takes place. 

Qualifying Life Events (QLEs)

Qualifying Life Events (QLEs) are your way of getting health insurance outside the usual enrollment periods. These events include:

• Marriage or divorce.
• Having a baby or adopting a child.
• Losing previous health coverage (from job termination or aging out of a parent’s plan).
• Moving to a new state or coverage area.

After experiencing a qualifying life event, you must provide documents as proof. Acceptable documents include:

• Marriage certificates.
• Birth certificate or adoption paperwork.
• Termination letters.
• New lease agreement or mortgage paperwork.

Tip: Act fast when a QLE happens! You typically only have 60 days to enroll and submit proof. Be sure to gather your documents ahead of time to streamline your application.

Medicaid and CHIP programs

Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) are government-sponsored programs that are great if you want affordable coverage. Unlike Special Enrollment Periods, there’s no deadline to enroll. These income-based programs accept applications year-round, making them more accessible to people who need them. 

What does each program cover?

• Medicaid: Doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs.
• CHIP: Covers children’s (and, in some states, pregnant women) doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs.

Think you may be eligible for either of these programs? There are simple ways to check:

• Visit your state’s Medicaid website or the federal marketplace for eligibility information.
• Submit your application with accurate income information, as it impacts eligibility.
• Prepare documentation for proof of income or residency to streamline the process.
• Visit your state marketplace or healthcare.gov to directly apply for Medicaid and CHIP.

How to apply for health insurance outside of open enrollment

With year-round flexible programs, you can find coverage that fits your healthcare needs and budget. Here are some ways to get started:

Researching your options

Start by browsing available health insurance plans on the federal or state marketplace. These platforms allow you to compare plans side by side, helping you find one that offers the right balance of coverage and cost. In some cases, insurers may also sell plans directly to you.

Think about what matters most—coverage for prescriptions, hospital care, or specific doctors. Make sure the plan you choose fits both your health needs and your budget.

Here’s a quick checklist to guide your research:

• Coverage needs: Do you need prescription drug coverage? Regular doctor visits?
• Budget considerations: Know your premium limits and what you can afford for out-of-pocket expenses.
• Flexibility: Some plans offer more customization, so take the time to review additional benefits.

Applying for Medicaid or CHIP

You can apply for Medicaid and CHIP available year-round online, via mail, or in person. To apply follow these steps:

• Visit your state Medicaid website or healthcare.gov for details about specific programs or services available in your area. These free resources can help you find the best fit for your needs.

• Gather required documents like proof of income and citizenship before starting your application. This includes recent pay stubs, tax returns, and benefits documentation for financial eligibility, as well as legal residency or citizenship proof like a birth certificate, passport, or green card.

• Complete and submit your application to receive a determination. Once you have all the necessary documents and information, you can fill out your application. Submit your application and keep an eye out for any communication regarding your application status.

These programs are temporary safety nets for health insurance — there when you need the help so you can worry less about high out-of-pocket costs.

Deadlines and timing

Timing is everything! When it comes to finding health insurance outside of open enrollment, deadlines can make or break your chances of securing coverage.

While Medicaid and CHIP are available year-round, Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) come with strict windows—typically 60 days after a qualifying life event. Missing this deadline could leave you without coverage for the rest of the year, so it’s important to act fast and stay informed.

Set reminders and mark your calendars for important dates. Keep your paperwork ready to avoid delays when a SEP opens up for you!

Simplified health insurance options

Looking for a short-term solution to bridge the gap in your coverage? You’re not out of luck. Programs like The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA)  and short-term health insurance can be lifesavers when you need immediate coverage without a long-term commitment.

COBRA coverage 

COBRA keeps you covered in-between jobs, by allowing you to temporarily keep your employer-sponsored health insurance. This means you’ll maintain the same coverage—doctor networks, prescriptions—while you figure out your next move.

What’s the Catch? COBRA can be more expensive since you’ll pay the entire premium yourself without employer subsidies. However, it’s a good option for people who want to maintain comprehensive coverage during job transitions.

Short-Term health insurance 

Quick fix, limited coverage. Need something fast and affordable? Short-term health insurance, can provide temporary coverage for a few months, helping you manage unexpected gaps and lower out-of-pocket expenses until you find a more permanent plan. Benefits are limited and include:

• Affordable premiums for temporary coverage.
• Limited coverage—excludes pre-existing conditions.
• Short duration. Plans usually last 1-3 months.

Important Reminder: Short-term plans often don’t cover pre-existing conditions and may not meet Affordable Care Act (ACA) standards, so weigh your options carefully before choosing this route.

Open Enrollment overview

Mark your calendars!

Open enrollment for ACA marketplace plans occur annually from November to January, so mark your calendars. It’s important to know the deadlines in your specific area for the exact dates. During this time, anyone can enroll in a health insurance plan or make changes to their existing coverage.

Having the resources and information about all your coverage options helps to make sure that you don’t miss out on receiving coverage throughout the year.

The bottom line

When life happens, eHealth is here to help.

Whether it’s a new job, a big move, or an unexpected life event, there are always options to stay covered outside of Open Enrollment. By exploring programs like SEPs, Medicaid, and short-term health insurance, you can find the right solution for your needs. Act quickly and take advantage of your resources. It’s the best way to avoid losing out on health insurance when you may need it most.

2826-2025