- A qualifying life event usually gives you 60 days to enroll in an ACA plan.
- Losing coverage, moving, marriage, and having or adopting a child are the most common events.
- Quitting a plan voluntarily or not paying premiums generally doesn't qualify.
- No qualifying event? Private plans are often available year-round.
ACA Marketplace plans have an annual open enrollment period that typically starts November 1. Outside that window, you need a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to enroll in or change an ACA plan. SEPs are triggered by qualifying life events.
Common qualifying life events
- Losing health coverage: leaving a job, aging off a parent's plan at 26, losing Medicaid or CHIP eligibility, or COBRA ending.
- Changes in household: marriage, divorce in some cases, having a baby, adopting a child or placing a child for foster care, or a death in the family.
- Moving: to a new ZIP code or county, provided you had qualifying coverage before the move in most cases.
- Other events: gaining U.S. citizenship or lawful presence, leaving incarceration, and certain income changes.
How long do you have?
Generally 60 days from the event. For loss of coverage you can often report it up to 60 days in advance so your new plan starts with no gap. Coverage start dates depend on the event and when you select a plan.
Will you need proof?
Often, yes. The Marketplace may ask for documents such as a letter showing coverage ended, a lease or utility bill for a move, or a marriage or birth certificate. Upload them promptly so your enrollment isn't delayed or cancelled.
Advisor tip: Voluntarily dropping coverage, or losing it because you didn't pay premiums, generally does not count as a qualifying event.
What if you don't qualify?
- Private health plans: many can be applied for any time of year, subject to underwriting.
- Supplemental coverage: accident, critical illness, dental and vision plans are often available year-round.
- Plan ahead: put open enrollment on your calendar so you don't get stuck next year.
Not sure if your situation qualifies? Tell me what happened and when. It takes about five minutes to figure out.
Luis Ruiz is a licensed health insurance advisor (NPN 22256582) based in Orlando, Florida, and licensed in all 50 states. He helps self-employed people, business owners and families compare private and ACA coverage. More about Luis.
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or individualized insurance advice. Rules change, so always confirm details for your situation. Last reviewed October 1, 2026.