In most states, open enrollment has closed for 2021 health plans. After open enrollment ends, you purchase a health insurance plan through DC Health Link unless you qualify for an exception, called a "special enrollment period" (SEP). 

Do You Qualify for a Special Enrollment Period?

To get a SEP, you must show proof of what the Affordable Care Act calls a "qualifying life event." These events make you eligible to sign up for health insurance outside of open enrollment. They include:

You may also qualify for a special enrollment period if you lose significant income or become eligible for new premium subsidies. 

If you qualify for a SEP, you will usually have 60 days to choose a new insurance plan.

To learn more, visit DC Health Link.

Enrollment Never Closes for Medicaid 

Medicaid is administered by states for low-income families and individuals, people with disabilities, and some other adults. You can apply for Medicaid through the District of Columbia's health insurance marketplace or by contacting the District of Columbia’s Medicaid office. 

You Can Buy Insurance Directly From an Insurance Company or Agent at Any Time

If you buy coverage outside of the health insurance marketplace, your coverage will take effect soon after you pay your first premium, but you won’t qualify for the premium subsidies available through your state’s health insurance exchange.

Find an agent. To find help in your area, go to Find Local Help at HealthCare.gov. There, you enter your city and state or zip code to get a list of insurance agents and brokers near you.

Talk to a licensed broker. To directly connect with a the District of Columbia insurance broker who can help you evaluate insurance plans and choose a plan that's appropriate for your situation, call 800-943-6832. (Please note that we receive advertising income from the licensed brokers who offer their services through this telephone number.)

You Can Buy a Health Plan From DC Health Link During the Next Open Enrollment Period

the District of Columbia Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) open enrollment for 2022 begins on November 1, 2021.