Open Enrollment vs. Special Enrollment: What’s the Difference?

Updated 2025-09-16

Open Enrollment (OE)

OE is the annual window when anyone eligible can enroll in or switch Marketplace plans. Dates vary by state, but typically run late fall to mid‑January. If you enroll by the monthly deadline, your coverage generally starts the first of the following month.

Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

SEPs open when you experience a qualifying life event (QLE): moving, marriage, birth/adoption, losing other coverage, or a significant income change. Most SEPs give you 60 days from the event to enroll.

Which one applies to you?

How True North Roots helps

We verify SEP eligibility, gather documents, and submit an on‑time application so you don’t miss your window. During OE, we schedule comparisons to ensure you don’t auto‑renew into a worse plan.

Need help deciding? True North Roots can compare plans, estimate your subsidy, and enroll you at no cost.

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