Can I switch health insurance plans during the year?

In general, switching health insurance plans is not allowed outside of the open enrollment period, which typically occurs once a year. However, the Affordable Care Act allows for certain circumstances, known as qualifying life events, that permit individuals to make changes to their health insurance plans throughout the year. These life events may include scenarios such as getting married, having a baby, moving to a new state, or losing other qualifying health coverage. If a person experiences one of these qualifying events, they may be eligible for a special enrollment period during which they can apply for a new plan or change their current plan. This special enrollment period usually lasts for a limited time, often around sixty days from the date of the event. If anyone is unsure about whether they qualify for a special enrollment period or has questions about their specific situation, it is a good idea to check the HealthCare.gov website for detailed information and guidance. There, individuals can also find resources on how to enroll or change plans based on their circumstances.