ACA Open Enrollment Countdown — How It Works
The ACA Marketplace Open Enrollment window runs from November 1 to January 15 each year. If you miss this window, you can only enroll outside of it if you experience a qualifying life event. This tool shows exactly how many days until enrollment opens and gives you a prep checklist.
Key Deadlines to Know
Enroll by December 15 and coverage starts January 1. Enroll between December 16 and January 15 and coverage starts February 1. Missing January 15 means waiting until next Open Enrollment unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.
Employer Insurance
If you have employer-sponsored insurance, your enrollment window is set by your employer — often October or early November. Check with HR for your specific dates. This calculator covers the ACA Marketplace schedule only.
Frequently Asked Questions
You qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you lose coverage, get married, have a child, move to a new coverage area, or experience other qualifying events. You typically have 60 days from the event to enroll.
Yes. Even if you already have Marketplace coverage, Open Enrollment is the time to switch plans, adjust coverage levels, or add/remove dependents.