Special Enrollment Period and Moving: How Relocating Can Qualify You for ACA Coverage
Moving to a new home can be an exciting milestone, but it also comes with important administrative changes that are easy to overlook. One of the most critical is how a move can affect your health insurance under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).
Many people are unaware that a qualifying move may trigger a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), allowing you to enroll in or change your health plan outside of the regular Open Enrollment Period. However, not all moves qualify, and specific rules apply.
In this comprehensive guide, we explain how moving relates to the Special Enrollment Period, which relocations qualify, which do not, what steps to take, and how to avoid gaps in health coverage.
What Is a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) in ACA?
A Special Enrollment Period (SEP) is a limited window that allows individuals to enroll in an ACA Marketplace health plan outside of Open Enrollment due to a qualifying life event.
These events are significant changes that affect eligibility, coverage availability, or access to health plans.
Common qualifying events include:
Loss of health coverage
Marriage or divorce
Birth or adoption of a child
Changes in immigration status
Qualifying moves or relocations
The purpose of SEP is to ensure people do not lose access to health insurance due to major life transitions.
Why Can Moving Trigger a SEP?
ACA health plans are organized by service areas. When you move outside your current service area, your existing plan may:
No longer be available
Lack in-network providers in your new location
Not comply with regulations in the new state
Because of this, moving to a new coverage area can trigger a Special Enrollment Period, allowing you to select a plan that fits your new location.
Types of Moves That Qualify for a SEP
Not every move automatically qualifies. To trigger a SEP, certain conditions must be met.
Moves That Typically Qualify
You may qualify for a SEP if you move:
To a different state
Within the same state but to a new ZIP code with different plan options
From outside the United States to the U.S.
From temporary housing or a shelter to permanent housing
As a student relocating for school
For work to a new service area
Moves That Do NOT Qualify for a SEP
The following situations usually do not qualify:
Moving within the same coverage area
Temporary moves (vacations or short visits)
Moving without having prior qualifying health coverage
Voluntary relocation where available plans do not change
Understanding this distinction helps avoid incorrect assumptions.
Key Requirement: Prior Coverage
In most cases, to qualify for a SEP due to moving, you must have had minimum essential coverage for at least one day during the 60 days before your move.
Important exceptions include:
Individuals moving to the U.S. from another country
Individuals released from incarceration
Individuals who qualify for Medicaid or CHIP
Failure to meet this requirement is one of the most common reasons SEP requests are denied.
How Long Does a SEP for Moving Last?
The SEP for relocation has a strict time limit.
You typically have 60 days after the move to enroll.
In some cases, you can apply up to 60 days before a scheduled move.
If you miss this window, you generally must wait until the next Open Enrollment Period.
How to Report a Move in the Marketplace
To correctly activate a SEP due to moving, follow these steps:
Log into your Marketplace account
Report your change of address
Enter the exact move date
Confirm SEP eligibility
Compare new plan options
Select a plan within the allowed timeframe
Incorrect dates or addresses can delay or invalidate your enrollment.
How Moving Affects Subsidies and Costs
Relocating can significantly impact:
Your premium subsidies
Monthly premium costs
Deductibles and copayments
Provider networks
Health insurance pricing varies by state and region, making plan comparison especially important after a move.
Common Mistakes When Using a SEP for Moving
Some frequent errors include:
Failing to report the move promptly
Assuming all moves qualify
Missing documentation deadlines
Choosing a plan without reviewing provider networks
Missing the 60-day enrollment window
Avoiding these mistakes can prevent coverage gaps and unexpected expenses.
What If You Do Not Qualify for a SEP After Moving?
If your move does not qualify for a SEP, your options may include:
Keeping your current plan if still valid
Checking eligibility for Medicaid or CHIP
Waiting until the next Open Enrollment Period
Preparing in advance for future enrollment
Each situation should be evaluated individually.
Why Professional Guidance Matters
SEP rules related to moving can be complex and vary by state. Even small mistakes can result in denied coverage.
Professional assistance can help you:
Confirm SEP eligibility
Avoid enrollment errors
Maximize available subsidies
Select the right plan for your new location
