Life changes that can let you enroll in or change a health plan

Marketplace health plans have an open enrollment period once a year, usually in the fall. Outside of it, you generally need a special enrollment period, which opens after certain life events.

Common qualifying life events

• Losing other health coverage, for example leaving a job that provided insurance, turning 26 and aging off a parent’s plan, or losing Medicaid eligibility.
• Moving to a new ZIP code or county with different plan options. In many cases you need to have had qualifying coverage before the move.
• Getting married.
• Having a baby, adopting a child, or placing a child for adoption or foster care.
• Other changes, such as becoming a U.S. citizen or being released from incarceration.

How much time you have

You usually have 60 days after the event to choose a plan. If you know you’re going to lose coverage, you can often apply up to 60 days before it ends, which helps you avoid a gap.

What usually doesn’t qualify

Dropping coverage on purpose, or losing it because premiums weren’t paid, generally doesn’t open a special enrollment period.

Proof you may need

You may be asked to show documents that confirm the event, such as a letter showing when your old coverage ended, a marriage certificate, or proof of your new address. Keep these handy.

In Nevada

Nevada’s health insurance marketplace is Nevada Health Link. It posts each year’s open enrollment dates and special enrollment rules at nevadahealthlink.com.

Supplemental coverage

Many supplemental plans, such as dental, vision, and accident coverage, can be applied for at any time of year rather than only during open enrollment. Check each plan’s rules and any waiting periods.

Had a life change recently? Book a consultation and we’ll walk through your options and deadlines.

This guide is general information, not advice about a specific plan. Enrollment rules and deadlines can change. Confirm current rules with Nevada Health Link or the plan before you make decisions.