A Qualifying Life Event (QLE) is a major change in your life that makes you eligible to enroll in or change your health insurance outside of Open Enrollment. Without a QLE, you can only sign up during the annual Open Enrollment Period (November 1 – January 15 for 2026 coverage).
When a QLE occurs, it triggers a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) — typically a 60-day window to pick a new plan. Missing that window means waiting until the next Open Enrollment, which could leave you uninsured for months.
Common qualifying life events include:
Important for 2026: the low-income SEP that previously allowed year-round enrollment without a QLE was eliminated. A qualifying life event is now required to enroll outside of OEP, regardless of income.
Generally 60 days from the date of the event. Some events, like having a baby, may allow you to enroll up to 60 days before the expected date. Don’t wait — if you miss the window, you’ll need to wait for Open Enrollment.
Moving to a new coverage area qualifies — meaning a new zip code or county where different plans are available. Moving within the same coverage area typically does not trigger a SEP. If you’re not sure whether your move qualifies, a broker can confirm before you apply.
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