Losing job-based coverage is a Qualifying Life Event, which opens a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). SEPs allow individuals to apply for coverage outside of the annual open enrollment period (OEP runs from November 1-January 15 each year). You can apply for coverage up to 60 days before or after the date of the event and enroll in a plan.
Visit www.marketplace.viginia.gov to get started and click on the yellow box labeled “Get Covered”.
If you need help applying, you can call Virginia's Insurance Marketplace Customer Assistance Center at 1-888-687-1501 (TTY: 711) to speak with a Virginia's Insurance Marketplace Customer Service Representative for guidance and direction. You can also find free, local assistance with a Virginia certified insurance agent, navigator, or assister in your community. Visit Marketplace Help Center | Virginia's Insurance Marketplace
Virginians who lost their job and job-based healthcare coverage can also apply for Medicaid online through commonhelp.virginia.gov. If the individual is determined ineligible for Medicaid, their information will be transferred to Virginia's Insurance Marketplace or to FAMIS, which covers uninsured children under 19.
No matter if you apply through Virginia's Insurance Marketplace or Commonhelp, we are committed to ensuring your application gets to the right place so you can enroll in the health coverage that meets the needs of you and your family.
Note: Marketplace plans take effect the first day of the month after your job-based insurance ends. So, if you lose your insurance plan on March 7 and select a Marketplace plan by March 31, coverage can start April 1.