When is Open Enrollment for individual health insurance?

Open Enrollment typically occurs in late fall through mid-January for coverage starting the following January. Some state-based Marketplaces set different start/end dates. Check your current year’s dates or ask RKA to confirm for your ZIP.

What if I miss Open Enrollment?

You’ll need a Qualifying Life Event (QLE)—like loss of coverage, marriage, birth/adoption, or moving—to trigger a Special Enrollment Period. Certain income ranges may also qualify you for a monthly SEP in some states.

Can I enroll in a private PPO outside Open Enrollment?

Some private, medically underwritten PPO options may be available year-round for eligible applicants. We’ll pre-screen underwriting and verify provider access.

When does my new plan start?

Marketplace plans selected by the monthly cutoff generally begin the first day of the following month. Dates can vary; we’ll confirm effective dates when we enroll you.

Robert Adams 11/21/24 Robert Adams 11/21/24

Affordable Health Insurance in Florida for the Self-Employed – 2025-2026 Guide

Open Enrollment is here! Learn key 2026 health insurance deadlines, who qualifies for Special Enrollment, and how to compare ACA vs private PPO plans before the window closes

Open Enrollment Health Insurance Deadlines: What to Know & When to Enroll | RKA

Guide • Open Enrollment

Open Enrollment Health Insurance Deadlines: What to Know & When to Enroll

Fast take: Open Enrollment is the main window to choose coverage for the upcoming year. If you miss it, you’ll need a Special Enrollment Period (life event or qualifying income) or you can explore eligible private PPO options if you qualify.

Key windows at a glance

Open Enrollment (most states)

Occurs in late fall through mid-January for coverage beginning Jan 1 (or Feb 1 for later selections).
Best time to compare ACA plans and confirm doctors/Rx.
We’ll confirm this year’s exact dates for your state.

Special Enrollment (life events)

Qualifying Life Events (QLEs): loss of coverage, marriage/divorce, birth/adoption, move, etc.
Typically a 60-day window (varies by event/state).
We help document and enroll before the deadline.

Income-based SEP (some situations)

Certain income ranges may unlock a monthly SEP in some states.
Helpful if income fluctuates or you missed OEP.
We’ll check eligibility and project your MAGI.

Private PPO (if eligible)

Some medically underwritten options enroll year-round.
We pre-screen underwriting and confirm nationwide access.
Useful for travelers or doctor-specific households.

How to avoid missing your window

Set reminders: Book a consult ahead of OEP so we can verify doctors and run cost projections.
Gather details: Provider list (names & locations), prescriptions, and estimated income (MAGI).
Pick confidently: We’ll show total annual cost (premium + likely usage) and confirm effective dates.

Quick FAQs

Do state-based Marketplace dates differ?

Yes, some state Marketplaces adjust start or end dates. We’ll verify your current-year window for your ZIP.

Can I switch plans mid-year?

Usually only with a Qualifying Life Event or an income-based SEP. Otherwise you’ll wait for OEP.

Are private PPOs available in my state?

Eligibility and availability vary. We’ll pre-screen quickly and confirm provider networks before you switch.

For education only; eligibility, plan availability, and dates vary by state and carrier. Always review official Marketplace notices and plan documents.