How to Find Affordable Health Insurance: Understanding Qualifying Events for the Affordable Care Act Insurance Marketplace

Hi, I’m Stephen Smith, and I’m here to help make finding affordable

health insurance a little less overwhelming. I know that life can change

quickly, and when it does, it can be hard to figure out what to

do next—especially when it comes to health insurance. If you’ve

experienced a qualifying event, you might be able to apply for or

change your health plan outside the regular enrollment period through

the ACA marketplace.

In this post, I’ll walk you through what a qualifying event is, the common events that qualify, and how I can help you navigate this process to get the coverage you need.

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What is a Qualifying Event?

A qualifying event is simply a big life change that lets you apply for

health insurance or make changes to your existing plan even if it’s

not open enrollment time. These events are important because they allow you to take advantage of a special enrollment period.

If something has changed in your life—whether you’ve lost a job, had a baby, or moved to a new place—you might qualify to sign up for health insurance right now. It can feel like a lot to take on, but don’t worry, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

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Common Qualifying Events

There are a few key life events that trigger a special enrollment period. Here are the most common ones:

1. Loss of Health Coverage

If you lose your health insurance, whether from losing a job, aging off a parent’s plan, or no longer qualifying for Medicaid, you can apply for a new plan through the marketplace. Life happens, and if you’ve lost coverage, don’t worry—you have a 60-day window to find a

new plan.

2. Changes in Household Size

Big changes in your family can qualify you for a special enrollment period, such as:

Getting Married or Divorced: If you get married or divorced, it may change your health insurance needs.

Having a Baby or Adopting: If you’ve recently had a baby or adopted a child, you’ll want to add them to your plan.

A Change in Dependents: If a family member moves in with you or if someone passes away, you can adjust your coverage.

These are big life changes, and I’m happy to help you navigate how they affect your health insurance.

3. Moving to a New Location

A move to a new state, county, or ZIP code can impact your insurance. If you’ve relocated, you may need to switch plans to ensure you’re covered in your new area. The good news is, a change of address can trigger a special enrollment period.

4. Changes in Citizenship or Immigration Status

If you’ve recently become a U.S. citizen or your immigration status has changed, you may be eligible to apply for health coverage through the marketplace.

5. Leaving Incarceration

If you’ve been incarcerated and are now being released, you can apply for coverage through the marketplace. Life after incarceration comes with a lot of changes, and I’m here to make sure health insurance is one thing you don’t have to worry about.

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When Can You Apply or Make Changes?

Once you’ve experienced a qualifying event, you typically have 60 days from the date of that event to apply for a new plan or make changes to your current coverage. That 60-day window gives you time to review your options, but it’s always a good idea to act sooner rather than later, just to be safe.

This is where I can help! I’m here to answer any questions you might

have and make sure you get the coverage you need, without any stress.

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What If You Don’t Qualify for a Special Enrollment Period?

If you haven’t experienced a qualifying event, you’ll need to wait until the next open enrollment period to apply for coverage. Open enrollment is usually once a year in the fall. During that time, anyone can apply for or switch plans.

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How Can I Help You?

I know the world of health insurance can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. If you’ve experienced a qualifying event, I’d be happy to walk you through your options and help you apply for coverage. Whether you’re unsure if you qualify or you just don’t know where to start, I’m here to make it easier for you.

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What Happens If I Miss the Deadline?

It’s important to act within the 60-day window after your qualifying event. Missing that window means you may have to wait until the next open enrollment period to apply for a plan. If you’re not sure if you’ve missed the deadline, or if you need a little help along the

way, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m happy to assist you in any way I can.

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Conclusion

If life has recently thrown you a curveball—whether it’s losing your job, having a baby, or moving to a new place—know that you might be able to apply for health insurance right now through the ACA marketplace. I’m Stephen Smith, and I’m here to help you make sense of it all. If you’ve experienced a qualifying event and need help finding the right coverage, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Together, we’ll make sure you get the health insurance you need, without the confusion.

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Have you recently experienced a qualifying event? I’m here to help! Reach out to me today, and let’s find the right plan for you and your family. Call Johnson Insurance Co at 706-376-2222 and ask for Stephen or visit www.johnsonsinsuranceco.com and schedule an appointment with me.