Open Enrollment Period

The yearly period when people can enroll in a health insurance plan. Open Enrollment for 2017 runs from November 1, 2016 to January 31, 2017.

Outside the Open Enrollment Period, you generally can enroll in a health insurance plan only if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. You’re eligible if you have certain life events, like getting married, having a baby, or losing other health coverage.

• Job-based plans may have different Open Enrollment Periods. Check with your employer.
• You can apply and enroll in Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) any time of year.

Related content

• Preview 2017 plans & prices
• Marketplace dates and deadlines
• See if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period or for Medicaid and CHIP
• See which life events qualify for a Special Enrollment Period