2022 Open Enrollment Periods—Everything You Need to Know

We are officially in the thick of the 2022 open enrollment period (OEP) season! With so many OEPs occurring during the 4th quarter, the health insurance industry has become much more seasonal over recent years, and it is expected to be a very busy time in the industry.

October 15th marked the start of the OEP season for Medicare, and November 1st marked the start of the OEP season in the individual market.

Below, we’ve summarized all the key dates and information you need to take note of.

Medicare Market

• Runs from October 15th to December 7th.
• Allows for enrollment or changes in any Part D or Medicare Advantage plan available in the service area.
• Changes and enrollments are effective as of January 1, 2022.
• Not applicable to Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans.

Individual Market

• Runs from November 1st to January 15th.
• Allows for enrollment or changes in on-Exchange and off-Exchange plans.
• Changes and enrollments are effective as of January 1, 2022 if applying by December 15th.
• Changes and enrollments are effective as of February 1, 2022 if applying after December 15th.

Small Group Market

Businesses can buy small-group plans at any time of the year, directly from an insurance company, via a broker or private exchange. In most states, insurers can impose participation requirements as well as employer contribution requirements. But there’s a one-month window each year, from November 15 to December 15, when small group coverage is guaranteed-issue even to small groups that don’t meet the normal participation or contribution requirements.

• Runs from November 15th to December 15th.
• Health insurance carriers must waive participation and contribution requirements.
• Enrollments are effective as of January 1, 2022.
• Some health insurance carriers may extend the length of the OEP and/or make other effective dates available.

Large Group Market

• No mandatory required OEP.
• Many large employers renew their health plans and benefits on January 1st, and as a result, they have an OEP that occurs during the fourth quarter.

As you look forward to next year and start thinking about your health coverage, we’d like to make your life just a little bit less complicated.

We can guide you through the enrollment process, and compare health insurance plans to find one that’s the best value and right for your needs.