Can individuals enroll in the Marketplace at any time?

Individuals cannot enroll in the Marketplace at any time; they are restricted to specific enrollment periods. This is primarily designed to maintain the health insurance program's stability and affordability. Open enrollment typically occurs once a year, allowing individuals to sign up for coverage. Additionally, there are special enrollment periods available for those who experience qualifying life events, such as getting married, having a baby, or losing other health coverage. This structure ensures that individuals are not able to enroll whenever they wish, which could lead to adverse selection within the health insurance market. Consequently, the correct understanding centers around the necessity of these designated enrollment periods for participating in the Marketplace.