Compare and find affordable health insurance
Key takeaways
- You can only buy ACA-compliant individual health insurance during the annual Open Enrollment Period or if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.
- There is currently a shorter window for Open Enrollment in 2025 — with a time period that goes from November 1 until December 15th instead of the typical end date of January 15 the following year — unless it’s extended.
- As of 2025, enhanced federal subsidies — which help lower the monthly cost of health insurance for individuals and families — are still available but set to expire at the end of the year unless extended by legislation.
- Some states operate their own health insurance marketplaces — online platforms where individuals can compare and purchase health plans — with different enrollment deadlines, so it’s important to check your state’s schedule.
When it comes to buying individual health insurance, understanding enrollment periods and available options is crucial. While there are specific enrollment periods, there are also options for purchasing outside of these periods. Let’s explore the ins and outs of buying individual health insurance.
Health insurance enrollment periods
Private health insurance must be purchased during the Open Enrollment Period, (OEP) — just like other types of health coverage. During OEP, you can buy new insurance or switch your current plan. This typically happens from November 1 to January 15 the following year.
However, in 2025, the Open Enrollment Period is only scheduled to go until December 15, unless it gets extended. Remember, some states have their own health insurance marketplaces with different deadlines, so always check the dates for your state.
The annual OEP is your chance to buy an ACA-compliant Qualified Health Plans (QHPs). If you miss this window, you usually can’t sign up until the next OEP — unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).
How to get health insurance after Open Enrollment
If Open Enrollment ends and you still need health insurance, you can only buy an ACA-compliant plan if you qualify for Special Enrollment.
If you don’t qualify for a SEP, you still have options. eHealth offers short-term health insurance and discount prescription plans to cover gaps until the next OEP. Short-term health insurance can be an affordable solution for those looking for limited health coverage during transitional periods in their lives. These plans lack the benefits of ACA major medical plans, such as coverage for pre-existing conditions, but may be useful when ACA major medical plans are unaffordable or unavailable.
Special Enrollment periods
A Special Enrollment Period (SEP) lets you buy health insurance outside of Open Enrollment if you have a qualifying life event. Some examples include:
• Moving to a new state
• Getting married or divorced
• Losing other health coverage
You usually have 60 days after the event to apply. If you’re unsure if you qualify, an eHealth licensed agent can help you figure it out.
Medicaid and CHIP enrollment
Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) offer free or low-cost health insurance to those who qualify based on income and family size. Coverage includes doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and preventive care.
COBRA coverage
COBRA, or the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, lets you keep your job-based health insurance for a limited time after job loss, reduced hours, or other major life events. You can stay covered for up to 18 or 36 months, depending on your situation.
Short-term health insurance
Short-term health insurance is a temporary solution for gaps in coverage, like between jobs or after Open Enrollment. Plans can last from a few months to a year, but they don’t always cover pre-existing conditions or all essential health benefits.
Health Insurance Marketplace Special Enrollment
The Health Insurance Marketplace allows you to buy or change health plans if you experience certain life events like marriage, the birth of a child, or moving. You don’t have to wait until Open Enrollment to get covered if you qualify.
Private health insurance plans
Private health insurance is offered by companies and can be purchased individually or through an employer. These plans cover things like doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions. They’re available in different types, so you can pick what fits your needs and budget.
Factors to consider when purchasing health insurance
When you’re in the market for health insurance, there are several key factors to keep in mind to ensure you’re getting the best coverage for your needs. Let’s break down three essential considerations: cost, coverage, and eligibility.
Cost
One of the first things to consider when purchasing health insurance is the cost. This includes not only the monthly premium you’ll pay for the policy but also any deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance amounts you’ll be responsible for. Premiums can vary based on the plan type, coverage level, and your age.
Deductibles are the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in, while copayments and coinsurance are the portion of costs you share with your insurer for covered services. It’s crucial to evaluate your budget and determine what you can afford in terms of premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.
While a lower monthly premium is initially an attractive option, it may mean higher costs when you need care, so it’s important to balance what you will pay each month with what you might pay out-of-pocket.
Note: In 2025, federal subsidies that help lower monthly premiums are still available, but they’re set to expire in 2026 unless Congress extends them. These subsidies have played a major role in reducing monthly premiums for millions of Americans. It may be a good idea to take advantage of these savings while they’re still in place and stay updated on any changes from Congress that could affect affordability moving forward.
According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, if they do expire, premiums could go up by as much as 75% on average.
Coverage
The next factor to consider is the coverage provided by the health insurance plan. Check what each plan covers and look for key services like:
• Doctor visits
• Hospital stays
• Prescription drugs
• Preventive care
Not all plans cover the same things, so be sure to compare benefits.
Eligibility
Finally, you need to consider your eligibility for different health insurance options. Eligibility criteria can vary depending on the type of plan you’re considering, whether it’s through an employer, a government program like Medicaid or Medicare, or a private insurance marketplace.
Factors such as income, age, employment status, and residency may impact your eligibility for certain plans. For example, Medicaid is typically available to low-income individuals and families, while Medicare is available to individuals aged 65 and older or those with certain disabilities.
Private health insurance plans may have eligibility requirements based on factors such as employment or enrollment periods. It’s essential to understand the eligibility requirements for each plan and determine which options you qualify for.
By carefully considering cost, coverage, and eligibility, you can make an informed decision when purchasing health insurance that meets your needs and fits your budget. Remember to compare different plans, evaluate their benefits and costs, and choose the option that offers the best combination of affordability and coverage for you and your family.
Penalties for remaining uninsured
Did you know there can be penalties for not having health insurance? If you go without coverage, you might have to pay a fine when you file your taxes. You can find out more about the penalties for remaining uninsured in our comprehensive guide here. Don’t risk facing hefty fines — get informed about your options today!
Buying private health insurance: FAQs
When can I buy private health insurance?
Private health insurance coverage can be purchased during the Open Enrollment Period or after a life-changing event occurs that allows for a 60-day special enrollment period. You cannot buy private health insurance outside of these specific situations.
Can I buy health insurance on my own?
Yes! You can purchase a plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace or directly from an insurance company. eHealth licensed insurance agents can help you compare options to find the best fit for you.
Is it cheaper to buy private health insurance?
It can be cheaper to buy private health insurance, as there are often more affordable options available compared to other types of health insurance plans. However, the cost depends on various factors such as your age, location, coverage needs, and the insurance provider. It’s essential to compare different private health insurance plans to find the most cost-effective option that meets your needs.
Concerned about the costs of private health insurance? Visit eHealthinsurance.com to explore your options and discover some of the top private health insurance plans all in one convenient location. Quality coverage doesn’t have to break the bank — find the right plan for you today!
Find health coverage that’s right for you
Check out the variety of individual and family health insurance options that eHealth has to offer. eHealth licensed insurance agents are here to help you find the coverage option that best meets your needs — now and in the future. Whether you need individual health insurance, dental insurance, or a combination, you can find what you need at eHealth. The best part? eHealth is an unbiased, free service — insurance companies pay us to help you find your match.
You can view the insurance options available to you at your convenience or contact an eHealth licensed insurance agent via chat or over the phone.
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