Open Enrollment is the designated time when most Americans can buy health insurance for the 2021 calendar year from the Health Insurance Marketplace. In most states, the 2021 Open Enrollment Period runs from Nov. 1, 2020 – Dec. 15, 2020. If you’ve been enrolled in a Marketplace plan (aka Obamacare or an Affordable Care Act plan), Open Enrollment is also the time that you can change your Marketplace plan.
To see health insurance plans and prices, and to see if you’re eligible for a subsidy that would lower the cost of your premium, enter your zip code below. 94% of people last year qualified for a subsidy, and the average person paid $47/month for coverage. This tool will also tell you if you’re eligible for Medicaid.
How do I enroll in Marketplace health insurance (aka Obamacare or Affordable Care Act insurance)?
You can shop for health insurance plans on the ACA Marketplace here.
If you have questions or prefer to start your application over the phone, you can call HealthSherpa’s Consumer Advocates at (872) 228-2549.
Grab our free step-by-step guide to enrolling in Marketplace health insurance here to learn more.
When is Open Enrollment?
In most states, Open Enrollment is a six-week period that runs from Nov. 1 – Dec. 15, 2020.
Some states have extended their Open Enrollment Periods, including:
- Minnesota: Dec. 22, 2020
- Colorado: Jan. 15, 2021
- Nevada: Jan. 15, 2021
- Pennsylvania: Jan. 15, 2021
- California: Jan. 31, 2021
- Washington, D.C.: Jan. 31, 2021
If you want to enroll outside of Open Enrollment, you’ll need a Qualifying Life Event, such as losing your health insurance, having a child, or moving. This will qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period, which is a 60-day window when you can enroll in health insurance outside of Open Enrollment Period. See the full list of qualifying life events here.
See our full guide to the 2021 Open Enrollment Period here.
What is the Health Insurance Marketplace?
The Health Insurance Marketplace was established by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to allow people the opportunity each year to buy ACA-compliant insurance directly. These plans are often referred to as Obamacare.
Who can shop the Marketplace?
If you live in the United States, are a citizen or a lawfully present immigrant, not incarcerated, and not already enrolled in Medicare, you can shop the Health Insurance Marketplace for an Obamacare health plan during Open Enrollment.
After the annual Open Enrollment Period ends, you will not be able to shop the Marketplace for health coverage unless you have a Qualifying Life Event that makes you eligible for a Special Enrollment Period.
What else can you do on the Marketplace?
You can also see if you qualify for Medicaid, CHIP (the Children’s Health Insurance Program) or Medicare.
What does Marketplace insurance include?
Due to the Affordable Care Act, all Marketplace plans are required to offer prescription drug coverage and coverage of pre-existing conditions, emergency care, mental health care, preventive care, and more.