The Difference Between Open Enrollment and Special Enrollment
by
A+ Insurance
Have you been wondering what the difference is between Open Enrollment and Special Enrollment? Are you unsure as to when you can enroll in health coverage? Understanding all of the different health care terms can be confusing, but we are here to help!
Open Enrollment
Open Enrollment happens only once a year for a short period of time and allows any eligible consumer to enroll in health coverage or existing members to make changes to their current coverage. The Open Enrollment Period usually takes place from November to January. This year Open Enrollment will be shorter: 11/01/17- 12/15/17 for effective date of 01/01/18.
Special Enrollment
- Special Enrollment happens all year long, but you must experience a qualifying life event. You can qualify for Special Enrollment if you experience certain life events, like losing other health coverage, getting married, or having a baby. However, for most qualifying life events, you only have 60 days from the date of the qualifying life event to enroll
- You may enroll under a short term policies throughout the year!
- You may also apply and enroll in Medi-Cal any time during the year!
