Open Enrollment is the one time of year when anybody can enroll in new health coverage, change their plan, or renew last year's plan. It lasts from November 1 until January 15 in most states. If you'd like your coverage to start on January 1, 2025, make sure to enroll by December 15.

November 1 to January 15 in most states (dates may differ slightly depending on which state you live in, so make sure to double check your key deadlines).

After Open Enrollment ends, you won't be able to enroll until next year, unless you have a qualifying life event (like a new baby or a big move).

If you qualify for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), you can apply any time all year round.

The idea behind having a brief window for Open Enrollment is that if anyone could get health insurance whenever they wanted, then no one would get it when they were healthy, and everyone would get it when they got sick or injured. That would make it impossible for insurance companies to cover the costs of care.

Want help finding a plan or getting signed up? Catch Support is here to help.

Or, if you'd prefer to shop on your own, take a look at plans through our Health Explorer.