A special enrollment period (SEP) is a time outside of open enrollment* during which you can purchase a new health insurance policy.
*Open enrollment for health insurance is a time each year when anyone can purchase or change a health insurance policy for any reason.
For 2022 plans, open enrollment was November 1, 2021 – January 15, 2022.
2023 open enrollment will run from November 1, 2022 – January 15, 2023.
What Triggers a Special Enrollment Period?
A SEP is triggered by certain life events, called qualifying events. Click here to learn more about qualifying events.
How Long Does a Special Enrollment Period Last?
In most cases, a SEP lasts 60 days from the date of the qualifying event.
However, in the case of the loss of a pre-Affordable Care Act policy due to non-renewal by the carrier, the SEP lasts for 30 days.
How do I Prove My Qualifying Event?
You must show proof of a qualifying event to enroll in new coverage.
If you have experienced a qualifying event, please secure written documentation of the event and call our office right away: 703-707-8270. We will be happy to help you find appropriate coverage!
Examples of documentation: marriage license, employment termination letter, COBRA expiration letter, birth certificate, etc.
