There are two types of enrollment periods that people can use to qualify to enroll into a health insurance plan, Open Enrollment Period and Special Enrollment Period.
Open Enrollment period (OEP)
Open enrollment period is an annual time frame that anybody can enroll into a health insurance plan. California’s open enrollment occurs from November through January. During this time it is possible to enroll into a new plan, renew a plan or make changes to an existing plan . The plans that are selected during the open enrollment period do not start until the first of the next year. This means if somebody applies for a plan in November or December the plan will not start until January of the next year. During this time period it is not necessary to have a specific life change or life event to qualify to enroll into a health insurance plan.
Open enrollment is a very important time because it allows people to apply , re-enroll and review what their health insurance options are for the coming year. Every year the health plans benefits, monthly costs and doctors networks change. These changes can affect the cost and type of coverage that may be right for you from year to year. This is why it is necessary to review your healthcare options during open enrollment; so that your benefits match your needs and your budget.
Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
Special Enrollment Period is a time period that is unique to a person’s life events. This special enrollment period happens when a life change occurs and their existing health insurance coverage is lost. This could be because of a birth, marriage, loss of work insurance, moved or similar events.When these changes happen it is possible to enroll into a health plan for 60 days following the date that the loss of coverage happened. During the Special Enrollment Period you can choose a health insurance plan, make changes to your existing health insurance plan or renew an existing health plan with your new information. SEP’s do not have a specific time, rather they are initiated when you have a life change.
Cancellation of Covered California Plan
Covered California plans are specifically designed to either permanent coverage or temporary coverage. Any Covered California plan may be terminated at any time throughout the year. But if you cancel a plan voluntarily and then later try to re-enroll; you may not be able to re-apply unless you have a qualifying life event for Special enrollment. In this way Covered California can be used as permanent or Temporary insurance coverage.