Is there a waiting period before my coverage becomes effective?

Possibly; it depends on the type of coverage you have.

Individual Market Coverage: The effective date of coverage in the individual market is set by the open enrollment and special enrollment period rules but is generally after you submit an application. After submitting an application, you should receive an eligibility notice alerting you to choose a plan and enroll.

Employer-sponsored Coverage: Employers may impose a waiting period of up to 90-days for new employees to be eligible for health insurance coverage. Please contact your employer’s Human Resources Department for more information.

Medicaid/CHIP: The effective dates of Medicaid/CHIP coverage vary widely depending on how you became eligible for Medicaid/CHIP. Coverage can become effective immediately or retroactively, depending on your circumstances. Please click here for more information: https://www.healthcare.gov/medicaid-chip.

Medicare: The effective date of Medicare coverage is set by the general enrollment and special enrollment period rules but is generally after application.