Check if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period
Apply through your state or federal health insurance marketplace
See if you are eligible for Medicaid
See if you qualify for CHIP if you have children
Contact your employer about adding coverage through a job-based plan
Ask about coverage through a spouse or parent’s plan
Look for short-term health insurance if available in your state
Contact insurers directly for plans that can start quickly
Use COBRA if you recently lost employer coverage
Compare same-day or next-day effective date options
Gather your Social Security number, income info, and immigration documents
Submit the application as soon as possible
Pay the first premium immediately if required
Confirm the effective date before enrolling
Use urgent care, community health centers, or sliding-scale clinics while waiting for coverage