The Open Enrollment Period (OEP) runs from Nov. 1 through Jan. 15 every year. When shopping for what health plan is right for you, it's important to be prepared. It's also a good idea to review your options each year, as your financial and health needs may have changed.

To simplify the process of selecting the right plan, we've created a checklist to help you understand the key factors.

When your priority is getting coverage, our priority is having you covered.

Consider career or relationship changes

Getting married or having a baby may change which plan option works best for you or if you qualify for a subsidy. These qualifying life events may also allow for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). This is when you can enroll or change your health coverage outside of the Open Enrollment Period (OEP). You should ask about a job-based family plan if you and your spouse are covered through your employer.

Review your family's health care needs

It's important to think about you and your family's health care needs. Some families may need coverage for ongoing or long-term health conditions and others may need coverage 'just in case'. There are many different plans available, each tailored for different needs. It's important to select a plan that matches your family's requirements.

Look at different health plan options

Each plan comes with a different balance of costs, coverage and extras. There are Gold plans for those who expect to need a lot of health care. With a Gold plan, you pay a higher monthly premium but less when you receive care, compared to a Bronze plan, which has a lower premium but higher costs when you get care. A Silver plan offers a moderate balance of premium and costs.

Make sure to look through all the plans offered to ensure you're choosing the plan that meets your financial and health care needs. The lowest premium isn't always the best value. Be sure to review the additional benefits, deductibles and coinsurance, along with the monthly premium.

Learn more about Marketplace metal levels and 5 things you must have in your health plan.

Check your eligibility for monthly savings

Some plans offer extra savings based on income.

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An advanced premium tax credit (APTC) is a credit you can take in advance to lower your monthly premium. When you apply for coverage, you estimate your expected annual income. If you qualify based on the expected income, you can use the credit in advance to lower your premium.

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You may also qualify for additional savings each time you get care when you choose a Silver plan.

Cost-sharing reductions lower your out-of-pocket costs for things like your deductible, copayments and coinsurance.

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For 2025:

  • An individual can have an income of $60,240 and still qualify for financial assistance
  • A family of four can have an income of $124,800 and still qualify for financial assistance

 

When you get a free MyPriority® quote, we'll check if you qualify for these monthly savings. Learn more about financial assistance.

Look for additional plan benefits and perks

Some plans come with extra benefits with zero added cost that you'll want to take advantage of. One benefit to look for is chronic condition management. With this benefit, you could have access to a range of products, services and prescriptions designed to help manage your condition and continue to live a happy, healthy life. Also, don't miss out on perks like discounts, gym memberships and travel assistance.

Put important dates on your calendar

  • Nov. 1: OEP begins for health coverage for the following year. It's the first day you can enroll, re-enroll or change your health plan.
  • Dec. 18: The last day you can enroll for 2025 coverage beginning Jan. 1
  • Jan 15: The last day you can enroll for coverage beginning Feb. 1; OEP ends
  • After Jan 15: You can only enroll or change your health coverage if you qualify for SEP

Find your perfect plan with our quiz guide

To discover which MyPriority plan is right for you, take our plan quiz. You'll also receive helpful tips for OEP.

Learn more

After going through this checklist, you'll be better prepared and ready to take on this Open Enrollment Period with ease. In the Learning Center, you can read more about how to compare health plans and get help understanding important Marketplace and health coverage terms.