ACA Enrollment Deadlines: Don’t Miss Out on Coverage (Copy)

Don’t miss enrollment

Missing the ACA enrollment deadline could mean going without health coverage for an entire year.

In this post, we break down key Obamacare enrollment dates, special enrollment rules, and tips to make sure you never miss your chance to apply.

ACA enrollment isn’t open year-round. If you miss the deadline, you could be stuck without coverage until the next year. Here’s everything you need to know about ACA enrollment timelines.

Key Dates for 2025–2026

• Open Enrollment: November 1, 2025 – January 15, 2026

• Apply by December 15: Coverage starts January 1, 2026

• Apply after December 15: Coverage starts February 1, 2026

Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)

You may qualify to enroll outside Open Enrollment if you experience:

• Loss of employer or Medicaid coverage

• Marriage or divorce

• Birth or adoption of a child

• Moving to a new state

Why Deadlines Matter

If you miss both Open Enrollment and SEP eligibility, you may need to wait until the following year. That could mean paying out-of-pocket for medical care—something most families can’t afford.

👉 Guardian Health Agency helps you track enrollment dates and apply on time so you never miss coverage.