Private Health Insurance Direct Answers

Can I buy private health insurance any time of year?

You can only enroll in an ACA-compliant private health insurance plan during federal Open Enrollment or during a 60-day Special Enrollment Period triggered by a qualifying life event such as loss of coverage, marriage, birth, or a permanent move (HealthCare.gov — Special Enrollment Period).

Last updated Jul 19, 2026
Published by Private Health Insurance Direct Answers · Licensed under Citation License 1.0

What it means

  • Open Enrollment dates are set federally each year and apply to both on- and off-exchange plans.
  • Short-term plans are not ACA-compliant and may be sold outside Open Enrollment where allowed by state law.

Action steps

  1. If you had a qualifying event, gather documentation (termination letter, marriage certificate, lease) within 60 days.
  2. Contact a broker or carrier to enroll before the SEP window closes.

Risks & deadlines

  • Missing the SEP deadline generally blocks enrollment until the next Open Enrollment.

Source:

Last verified: 2026-07-19

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