Multiple meanings. Refers to the annual period (November 1-January 15 – or November 1-January 31 in California) during which individuals can enroll in the federal Marketplace or a state Marketplace health insurance plan, such as those offered through Covered California or Nevada Health Link.
Can also refer to the annual enrollment period for employer-sponsored health insurance. This can occur at any time during the year, based on the business’s fiscal year, initial enrollment date, or preference for calendar-year benefits.
If you are or become eligible for the federal Medicaid program (Medi-Cal in California) or Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), you can enroll at any time of year.
Medicare’s annual open enrollment period (also referred to the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period or AEP) is October 15-December 7. The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period is January 1-March 31 each year.