When Can I Change My Health Insurance Plan?

Choosing the right health insurance plan is crucial for your health, finances, and peace of mind. But what if your situation changes mid-year? Here’s what you need to know about when you can change your health insurance plan to avoid unexpected gaps in coverage.

1. Open Enrollment Period - November 1st to January 15th

For most people, Open Enrollment is the main time to change or choose a health insurance plan. For Marketplace (ACA) plans in Arkansas, Open Enrollment runs from:

1. November 1 to January

During this period, you can:

• Enroll in a new health insurance plan

• Change your existing plan

• Renew your current plan for the next year

If you miss this window, you may not be able to make changes unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).

2. Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

A Special Enrollment Period allows you to change your health insurance plan outside of Open Enrollment if you experience a Qualifying Life Event. Common qualifying events include:

• Loss of other coverage (e.g. losing job-based insurance, turning 26 and aging off a parent’s plan)

• Marriage or divorce

• Having a baby or adopting a child

• Moving to a new zip code or county (including relocating within or to Bentonville)

• Changes in income that affect your subsidy eligibility

• Becoming a U.S. citizen

• Leaving incarceration

In most cases, you have 60 days from the date of the event to change or enroll in a new plan.

3. Medicaid and ARKids First Enrollment

If you qualify for Medicaid or ARKids First (CHIP in Arkansas), you can enroll any time of the year. There is no restricted enrollment period for these programs.

4. Employer-Sponsored Plans

If you have health insurance through your job, Open Enrollment dates depend on your employer. Most companies hold enrollment once per year, often in the fall. Qualifying life events still allow mid-year changes for employer-sponsored plans.

Why It Matters

Missing your enrollment window can mean going without coverage or paying high out-of-pocket costs for unexpected medical needs. Even if you’re healthy, accidents and illnesses can happen anytime.

Local Help From Friendliest Agent

At Friendliest Agent, we help individuals, families, and small business owners across Bentonville, Rogers, Springdale, and Northwest Arkansas navigate enrollment periods and find health insurance plans that fit their needs and budget.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to review your options and make sure you’re never left uninsured.

FAQs

Can I change my plan anytime if I pay full price?
No. Even if you pay the full premium, you generally need a qualifying life event or must wait for Open Enrollment.

What if I miss the deadline?
You may have to wait until the next Open Enrollment unless you qualify for Medicaid or a Special Enrollment Period.

Final Thoughts

Knowing when you can change your health insurance plan ensures you and your family remain protected year-round. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or enrollment dates, call Friendliest Agent today. We’re here to guide you every step of the way with friendly, honest advice.

Friendliest Agent – Your local health insurance expert in NWA. Call or text us at 479.326.8868.