You lose your job in March. Or maybe you turn 26 in July. Or you start freelance work in September. The next thing you know, you do not have health coverage for some months.
People often say, "wait for Open Enrollment." Sometimes this is good advice. A lot of times, it may not be. Here is how you can find out what you should do.
Your Options When You Need Coverage Outside the Usual Window
If you need tobuy health insurance now, you have three main options. The first is a Special Enrollment Period for a Marketplace or work plan. The second is a private plan, which you can get right from an insurer or broker. The third is a short-term or extra plan that can help fill a gap. Which one you pick will depend on why you need coverage and how long you plan to keep it. The key thing to know is that waiting is not free. One ER visit with no coverage can cost more than a whole year of premiums.
How Open Enrollment Works
Open Enrollment takes place just once a year. This is the period when any individual can enroll into a plan on the Marketplace. Open enrollment for 2027 begins from November 1, 2026, to January 15, 2027, through HealthCare.gov. In some states, this period might be different. If one wishes to start coverage from January 1, he/she will probably have to enroll before December 15.
TheNAIC’s guide to 2027 health plan options is a good place to see what health plans you can get this year and compare them all in one spot.
What Counts as a Special Enrollment Period
Outside Open Enrollment, you can still sign up for a Marketplace plan if you have a life change that qualifies. Some common life events are:
• Losing job-based or other coverage
• Getting married or divorced
• Having or adopting a baby
• Moving to a new area
• Aging off a parent’s plan at 26
You usually get 60 days from the event to sign up. If you miss this time, you might have to wait until the next Open Enrollment.
When Buying Private Coverage Mid-Year Makes Sense
Here’s where private coverage earns its place.
You can’t get a special enrollment right now. Maybe you have just decided you want health coverage, or maybe you did not sign up within the 60 days. For now, private options may be the only way you can get it until next year.
You need coverage fast. Some private plans can start in days. This is important if you have something coming up that might need coverage or if you just started a risky job or hobby.
You are not working for a short time. If health plans from a new job begin in three months, a bridge plan can help you stay covered for that time.
You work for yourself. A lot of freelancers and gig workers usually shop outside job-based systems for things they need. When you compare private options side by side, you get more choice.
The Tradeoffs to Compare First
Not every plan is the same. Be sure to read all the details:
|
Factor |
Marketplace plan |
Short-term or limited plan |
|
Pre-existing conditions |
Covered |
Often excluded |
|
Essential health benefits |
Required |
Not always included |
|
Income-based subsidies |
Available |
Not available |
|
Enrollment timing |
Open Enrollment or SEP |
Often year-round |
|
Length of coverage |
Full year |
Limited duration |
NerdWallet’s Open Enrollment explainer shows you how to look at deductibles, networks, and full yearly costs. It does more than just tell you about the monthly premium.
Making the Call Today
Open Enrollment for 2027 is here now. This is the best time of the year to find more plans. If you want to buy health insurance, first compare Marketplace plans and private plans. Look to see if you can get help paying for the plan. See if your doctors will take your new plan. If it is not Open Enrollment, see if something in your life lets you sign up outside of the normal time.
FAQ
Can I buy health insurance any time of year?
You need to sign up during Open Enrollment or if you have a special life change to get Marketplace plans. A few private and short-term health plans are open to buy all year.
What happens if I miss Open Enrollment?
You need to have a major change in your life to get a Marketplace plan. If not, you can check out private bridge plans to hold you over until the next time you can sign up.
They often do not. Be sure to read the policy terms before you buy.
How long do I have after losing job coverage?
You usually have 60 days to sign up through a Special Enrollment Period.
Final Thoughts
Waiting for Open Enrollment is okay if it is soon and you feel fine. If it is still a long time from now, or if you need coverage right away, getting private coverage in the middle of the year can help you with big costs that are hard to handle. It is good to know the dates and your options. Don't let time decide how you take care of your health.
