Even though it’s been the law for more than five years now, it’s hard to stay on top of all of the changes resulting from the Affordable Care Act (ACA). For example, in the past, you could buy an individual or family policy any time. That is no longer the case unless you have a special enrollment event. With the ACA, a limited "open enrollment" period has been implemented.
To get a new individual or family health insurance policy in Wisconsin for coverage the following year, here are some dates to remember:
If you have an individual or family health insurance policy, you must sign up for insurance during open enrollment to be insured the following year (unless you have a special enrollment event). This means getting a policy for the first time, renewing an existing policy or switching to a different health insurance policy. In Wisconsin, you can use Quartz’s Browse Plans tool to see if you qualify for help with your costs, explore plan options, add dependents to an existing plan or enroll in a plan.
Insurance companies must begin sending renewal notices reminding members to review their health insurance plan options for the upcoming year. Members may change plans or keep the same plan, as long as they make the decision during open enrollment.
If you want health insurance coverage to begin on January 1, you need to sign up by December 15. If you do not, your coverage may start later in the year. Also, if you purchased your plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace, you should update your information at healthcare.gov by this date to ensure you get the financial assistance you may qualify for.
To make sure you have your health insurance information for the new year, it’s a good idea to sign up or renew as early as possible.
No. If you work for the State of Wisconsin, your open enrollment period is different each year. This includes state employees, UW Hospital & Clinics employees, graduate assistants, State of Wisconsin annuitants or continuants, and local government participants.
In addition, you may get health insurance outside of the Open Enrollment Period if:
If you have questions about open enrollment or you’re still unsure about when you can sign up for health insurance without paying a penalty, give us a call at 800.362.3310 or contact us online. We’re happy to help.
