You Missed the Dec 15 Deadline. You’re Still Okay.

If you panicked last week because you missed the December 15 deadline for Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance, breathe.

You have a second window.

The Deadline: The Federal Open Enrollment period officially runs until January 15, 2026.


The Catch: Plans selected between now and Jan 15 will have a coverage start date of February 1, 2026.


The Risk: You will have a “gap month” (January) where you are uninsured. If you have a medical emergency in January, you are liable.


Your Move: If you are uninsured, log into Healthcare.gov before the holiday break. Locking in a plan now ensures you are covered by Feb 1. Don’t let this slip until Jan 14.

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