Changing health plans after you enroll

Generally you cannot change a Marketplace plan after you have enrolled. However, there are two exceptions. One applies after Open Enrollment, and one applies during Open Enrollment.

You may change plans any time during Open Enrollment

You may change plans during Open Enrollment period, even after your 2016 coverage has begun. For example, if you enroll in a 2016 plan by December 7, 2015 or accept automatic enrollment, your coverage will begin January 1, 2016. You may change your plan any time during Open Enrollment period, which will end on January 31, 2016.

Let’s say your coverage begins on January 1, 2016 and your changed your plans on February 28, 2016. Your coverage would begin March 1, 2016. In this case you would be covered by the first coverage plan from January 1, 2016 until February 28, 2016. Then your new coverage will begin on March 1, 2016.

How to change your plan during Open Enrollment – or shop for health insurance anytime

Just put in your zip code and set the age parameter in the box above to view agents near you. FOR FREE!

OR – You may change your plan during Open Enrollment in two ways. You can do so by phone by contacting the Marketplace call center at 1-800-318-2596. Or online by logging onto your healthcare.gov account, selecting my plans and programs.

Then selecting the red end/terminate all coverage button. You would then navigate to eligibility and appeals. You will then select the green continue to enrollment button. You can then enroll in a new one and shop for plans. Note that depending on the date you confirm your new plan, the coverage start date might be later than your original selection.

Canceling a plan without replacing it

You may cancel your Marketplace plan without replacing it with a new one at anytime. However, there are important things to consider before you do this. If your terminate your health care coverage without replacing it, you might have to pay penalties during the months you are not covered.

There is also the vital financial and health risks if you do not have health coverage. If you want to cancel your coverage, log into your Marketplace account then select the red terminate/end all coverage button.

 

Changing a Health Insurance Marketplace (healthcare gov)