What Happens If You Miss Open Enrollment?

What Happens If You Miss Open Enrollment?

November 05, 20251 min read

Life gets busy — and sometimes people miss Open Enrollment. If that happens, it doesn’t automatically mean you’re out of options.

Here’s what you need to know.

Open Enrollment Deadlines

The Marketplace Open Enrollment period runs November 1 to January 15.

  • Enroll by December 15 for coverage starting January 1

  • Enroll between December 16 and January 15 for coverage starting February 1

After January 15, you can’t sign up for a Marketplace plan unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).

Common SEP Triggers

You may still be able to enroll if you’ve:

  • Lost Medicaid or CHIP coverage

  • Lost employer coverage

  • Got married, divorced, or had a baby

  • Moved to a new state or ZIP code

  • Been denied Medicaid or CHIP (with proof)

Each SEP has specific rules and proof requirements — and most give you 60 days to enroll after the qualifying event.

Important Note on Medicaid Denials

If you recently lost Medicaid or were denied, you’ll need to provide documentation before your Marketplace coverage can start. The government has tightened these proof requirements to reduce fraud — so don’t delay.

If You Missed the Window Completely

If you don’t qualify for a SEP, we can still explore other temporary or alternative options — like private PPO-network plans, sharing ministries, or short-term coverage — to protect you until the next Open Enrollment.


The Bottom Line

Missing Open Enrollment isn’t the end of the road. You just need to know where to look next — and what proof to provide.

If you’ve missed the deadline or had a change in coverage, contact Mere Benefits right away. We’ll walk you through your options step by step.

📞 904-654-5450 | 🌐 www.merebenefits.com
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Not connected with or endorsed by the United States government or the federal Medicare program

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or ‍1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information. Not affiliate with or endorsed by the United States government, the federal Medicare program. Social Security, or
Healthcare.gov.


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