Open Enrollment for 2017 health plans starts November 1, 2016. Important dates to note:

• November 1, 2016: Open Enrollment starts — first day you can enroll, re-enroll, or change a 2017 insurance plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Coverage can start as soon as January 1, 2017.
• December 15, 2016: Last day to enroll in or change plans for coverage to start January 1, 2017.
• January 1, 2017: 2017 coverage starts for those who enroll or change plans by December 15.
• January 31, 2017: Last day to enroll in or change a 2017 health plan. After this date, you can enroll or change plans only if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

To get ready, sign up for emails to get deadline reminders and other important information.

You can also download this checklist to make sure you have everything you’ll need to apply.

Still need 2016 coverage?

You can still get 2016 health coverage if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to a life event — like getting married, losing other coverage, or having a baby. Find out if you qualify.

Medicaid & CHIP – apply any time

There’s no limited enrollment period for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). You can apply any time. To see if you may qualify and next steps, visit this screener page and select the second button, titled “See if you may qualify for Medicaid or CHIP.”