What is a qualifying life event? 

After an individual experiences a specified major life change (see below for a full list),  they’ll have 60 days to change their health insurance plan outside of the normal open enrollment period.

Is turning 26 a qualifying life event? 

Turning 26 is a qualifying life event. Once adults turn 26, generally, they’re no longer eligible to be dependents on their parent’s health insurance plan. Turning 26 changes their health insurance eligibility making it possible to select a new health insurance plan ahead of open enrollment.   

Is pregnancy a qualifying life event?  

Generally, pregnancy or adoption are considered qualifying life events. Following either of these events, individuals are eligible to update or select a new health insurance plan within the special enrollment period. 

Full list of qualifying life events

Having a new child or turning 26 aren’t the only qualifying life events. Here’s a full list of all qualifying events: 

• Getting married

• Getting divorced 

• Having a biological child

• Adopting a child

• Experiencing the death of a spouse or dependent

• Losing health insurance coverage due to job loss or a change in employment status

• Relocating to a new state

• Becoming a U.S. citizen 

• Gaining lawful permanent resident status

• Reaching the age of 26, which results in loss of dependent status for health insurance

• Experiencing a significant income change that affects eligibility for subsidies or tax credits