Open Enrollment and Life Events for Self-Employed Workers

Self-employed and gig workers can enroll in health insurance during open enrollment or after qualifying life events.

This page explains both and what you need to do.

What is Open Enrollment?

Open enrollment is the annual window when anyone can enroll in an ACA Marketplace plan or switch to a different plan.

• It happens once per year, typically November 1 through January 15 (varies by state).
• Coverage usually starts January 1 if you enroll by mid-December.
• This is your main chance to change plans or enroll for the first time each year.

Open enrollment dates for 2026

For 2026, open enrollment runs November 1, 2025 through January 15, 2026.

• Coverage begins January 1, 2026 if you enroll by December 15, 2025.
• If you enroll after December 15, coverage begins the month after enrollment.
• Deadlines vary by state, so check your state Marketplace for specifics.

What is a qualifying life event?

A qualifying life event (QLE) is a major change in your life that lets you enroll or change plans outside the normal open enrollment window.

• You usually have 60 days from the event to make changes.
• Common events include marriage, birth, job loss, moving, or losing other coverage.
• Starting a business or becoming self-employed is also a qualifying event.

Common life events for self-employed workers

• Getting married or divorced
• Having or adopting a baby
• Losing other health coverage (e.g., spouse's employer plan)
• Moving to a new state or county
• Turning 26 and aging off a parent's plan
• Starting a new business or becoming self-employed
• Changes in income that affect subsidy eligibility
• Gaining citizenship or lawful presence

What to do if you miss open enrollment

If you miss open enrollment and don't have a qualifying life event, you cannot enroll or change plans until the next open enrollment period (up to 11 months later).

• There are limited exceptions (losing employer coverage, significant income drop, family size change, moving).
• A licensed broker can help you check if your situation qualifies for an exception.
• Plan ahead and enroll during the annual window to avoid coverage gaps.

Can gig workers get a Special Enrollment Period?

Yes. Starting a new gig job, losing income from gigs, or significant changes in your gig income may all qualify as life events that open a special enrollment period.

• Report the change to your state Marketplace within 60 days.
• Have documentation ready (income change letter, proof of job loss, etc.).
• A licensed broker can help verify your situation qualifies.

What happens if I don't enroll when I'm supposed to?

If you don't enroll during open enrollment or after a qualifying life event, you won't have ACA Marketplace coverage.

• You may be subject to a coverage gap penalty when you file taxes (if applicable).
• You'll need to wait until the next open enrollment to enroll, unless a life event occurs.
• Consider private coverage or short-term plans to avoid being uninsured (talk to a broker first).

Learn more:

• Income and enrollment options
• Plan types to consider
• Tax deductions for health insurance