Generally, yes Open Enrollment is the main window. However, qualifying life events (job loss, marriage, new baby, moving) unlock a Special Enrollment Period that lets you enroll or make changes outside of Open Enrollment.

A Special Enrollment Period is a time outside of Open Enrollment when you can sign up for or change your health insurance plan. Qualifying events include losing other coverage, getting married, having a baby, moving to a new area, or changes in household income.

At the federal level, the ACA penalty was reduced to $0 after 2018. However, some states (like California, New Jersey, and Massachusetts) still enforce their own individual mandates with penalties. Check your state's rules or ask me directly.

No! If your employer's plan doesn't meet your needs, you may qualify for marketplace plans. However, if your employer's plan is considered "affordable" by ACA standards, you may not qualify for a subsidy on the marketplace. I can help you compare both options.

Possibly! Whether your doctor is covered depends on the plan's network. Before switching plans, I'll verify whether your current doctors and preferred hospitals are in-network so there are no surprises.