How to Get Health Insurance If You Missed Open Enrollment

May 16

2 min read

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Missing the Open Enrollment Period can feel overwhelming—but you still have options.

Missed Open Enrollment? Don’t worry—there are still ways to get health insurance outside the Open Enrollment Period. At SentiumHealth, we specialize in helping people find affordable coverage year-round.

What Is Open Enrollment?

Open Enrollment typically runs from November 1 to January 15 each year.

Open Enrollment is the annual window when individuals can enroll in or change their Health Insurance Marketplace plans. If you miss it, you’ll need a qualifying life event to sign up—or look into other available coverage.

1. Qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

Life changes like marriage, job loss, or a new baby may qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period.

You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you've recently experienced a major life event.

Common qualifying events include:

Losing health coverage
Getting married or divorced
Having a child or adopting
Moving to a new area
Gaining U.S. citizenship

You typically have 60 days to enroll after the event.

✅ Not sure if you qualify? Contact SentiumHealth for a free eligibility check.

2. Apply for Medicaid or CHIP (Available Year-Round)

Medicaid and CHIP provide essential coverage for low-income families and children.

Medicaid and CHIP accept applications year-round and provide low-cost or free health coverage based on income and household size.

You may qualify if you:

Have low to moderate incom

e
Are pregnant, disabled, or over 65
Have children who need coverage

3. Get a Short-Term Health Insurance Plan

Short-term plans can bridge gaps when you're between coverage options.

Short-term health insurance offers temporary coverage for people:

Between jobs
Waiting for new coverage to start
Who missed Open Enrollment

⚠️ These plans may not cover pre-existing conditions or essential benefits like maternity care or mental health.

4. Check for Employer-Based Insurance

New employees often have 30–60 days to enroll in company-sponsored plans—even outside Open Enrollment.

If you’ve recently started a new job, ask about your employer’s group health insurance. Most companies provide a separate initial enrollment window.

5. Other Options: Health Sharing or Discount Programs

Health sharing ministries aren't insurance and may not offer full protection.

While not traditional insurance, options like health sharing ministries and discount plans may provide temporary assistance. Use these only if you understand the risks and limitations.