
In Massachusetts, the open enrollment period for individual and family health coverage lasts from November 1 to January 15. This is the timeframe when individuals can enroll in or change their health plans. Residents can enroll in or change their health plans during this period without needing a special reason. Outside of this window, enrolling in a health plan typically requires a qualifying life event.
Qualifying life events include significant changes such as marriage, relocation, childbirth, adoption, or job-related loss of health coverage. After such an event, individuals have a 60-day window to enroll in a new health plan.
If you miss the open enrollment period and do not have a qualifying life event, you can still request an open enrollment waiver to gain access to health coverage. This flexibility ensures that residents always have a pathway to secure their health insurance needs.
The Massachusetts Health Insurance Marketplace offers a variety of health plans, including options for individuals, families, and catastrophic plans for those under 30 or with a hardship exemption. All plans available through the Massachusetts Marketplace comply with both state and federal coverage requirements, ensuring comprehensive protection.
Users can easily compare health plans based on costs and savings using our Plan Finder Tool on this website. By entering your zip code into this website, consumers can evaluate health plans side-by-side, considering factors like co-pays, deductibles, and overall costs.
Additionally, children under 19 can apply for child-only plans with parental consent, and various dental plans are available for children, families, and individuals, including a children’s medical security plan.