Common events that may qualify
HealthCare.gov lists loss of qualifying coverage, changes in household, qualifying moves and certain other circumstances. The details matter. A move made only for medical treatment or vacation does not qualify, and voluntarily cancelling some coverage does not create an enrollment right.
- Loss of employer, parent, individual, Medicaid or CHIP coverage
- Marriage, birth, adoption or foster placement
- A qualifying move to a new ZIP code or county
- Divorce or death when it causes a coverage loss
- Certain citizenship, incarceration-release and exceptional circumstances
Most windows are short
Many events use a 60-day window. Loss of qualifying coverage can be handled before or after the loss, while people who lost Medicaid or CHIP may have up to 90 days after the loss. Event-specific rules determine the effective date.
Apply as soon as you know coverage will end. Waiting until the final days leaves less time to resolve document requests or make the first premium payment.
Answer a few timing and household questions before sharing contact details.
Verification is especially important in 2026
The federal Marketplace is verifying eligibility for many Special Enrollment Period enrollments before coverage. Keep official documents showing the event date, previous coverage and who was affected. The Marketplace eligibility notice will say what to upload and by when.
HealthCoveragePath can help organize your situation, but only the Marketplace or another authorized enrollment entity determines eligibility.
Open Enrollment is separate
For 2026 HealthCare.gov coverage, Open Enrollment ran November 1, 2025 through January 15, 2026. Outside that period, you need a Special Enrollment Period or another program such as Medicaid or CHIP. HealthCare.gov has announced that Open Enrollment for 2027 coverage starts November 1.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Is low income alone a year-round Special Enrollment Period in 2026?
No. CMS removed the monthly Special Enrollment Period based only on projected income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level for plan year 2026.
What happens if I cannot prove my event?
HealthCare.gov may deny the Special Enrollment Period. Follow the eligibility notice and document deadline; appeal rights may be available.
Does moving within Florida qualify?
A move to a new ZIP code or county may qualify if other conditions are met. A temporary stay or move only for medical treatment does not.
Can I apply before coverage ends?
For an expected loss of qualifying coverage, the window can begin 60 days before the loss.
Primary sources
Where this guidance comes from
We prioritize current federal and Florida government sources. Rules and plan availability can change; use the official application for a final eligibility decision.
- HealthCare.gov — Special Enrollment Periods
- HealthCare.gov — Special circumstances list
- CMS — 2025 Marketplace Integrity and Affordability Final Rule
Updated September 10, 2026.