The Health Insurance Marketplace offers individuals the opportunity to purchase health insurance coverage as an alternative to employer provided coverage. Some individuals may find that obtaining coverage through the Exchange costs less than enrolling in coverage offered by an employer or continuing coverage under COBRA.
Generally, individuals may enroll in Marketplace coverage only during the open enrollment period, which occurs from November 15 through February 15 each year. To purchase Exchange coverage outside of open enrollment, an individual must have a special enrollment event recognized by the Exchange. Events such as loss of employer coverage, exhaustion of COBRA coverage, or birth of a child are special enrollment events.
The Exchange offers a “screener” that individuals may use to determine if they are eligible for special enrollment in Marketplace coverage. To access the screener, click here.