Most individuals may only buy private health insurance doing open enrollment, which runs from November 15 through February 15. However, certain life events will qualify you for a special enrollment period, during which you can buy coverage through the Marketplace. Life events include losing job-based insurance, moving, or a change in family size. HealthCare.gov offers a screener to help determine if you qualify for a special enrollment period.
If you qualify for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program, you may enroll at any time. There is no open enrollment period for these programs.