Life changes can affect your health coverage, financial help, or eligibility for programs like Explore Health, the Oregon Health Plan (OHP), Medicare, or VA health care.
It is important to report changes as soon as possible so you can:
- Keep the right coverage
- Avoid gaps in coverage
- Get the correct amount of financial help
- Learn if you qualify for a different program or plan
Common changes to report include:
- Changes in income
- Moving to a new address
- Marriage or divorce
- Having or adopting a baby
- Changes in household size
- Losing other health coverage
- Starting or losing a job
- Becoming eligible for Medicare or VA benefits
Can you change plans during the year?
If you have Explore Health coverage, you can usually change plans only during Open Enrollment.
However, certain life changes, called qualifying life events, may allow you to change plans or enroll outside of Open Enrollment through a Special Enrollment Period.
Examples include:
- Losing health coverage
- Moving
- Getting married
- Having a baby
- Changes in income or household size
If you experience a life change, it may help to talk with a local enrollment partner who can help you understand your options and update your application.
To report changes or update Explore Health coverage, visit ExploreHealthOR.gov.
If you have OHP or OHP Bridge, you must report changes to your application information, usually within 10 days.
Reporting changes helps make sure you:
- Stay eligible for coverage
- Receive the right benefits
- Avoid delays or incorrect notices
You can report changes by:
People with Medicare may be able to change coverage during certain enrollment periods throughout the year.
Examples include:
- Medicare Open Enrollment
- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment
- Special Enrollment Periods for qualifying life events
If you become eligible for Medicare, it is important to understand how Medicare works with other coverage, including Marketplace plans, OHP, or VA health care.
For Medicare help in Oregon, contact the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) program for free counseling and information.
Veterans enrolled in VA health care should report major life changes to the VA, especially changes that could affect eligibility, income-based benefits, or other health coverage.
Some veterans may qualify for more than one type of health coverage, such as:
- VA health care and Medicare
- VA health care and OHP
- VA health care and Marketplace coverage
Having more than one type of coverage may provide additional access to providers and services.
Veterans who are unsure about their options may want to contact the VA or speak with a local veteran service officer for help understanding available coverage programs.
Need help reporting changes?
Local health enrollment partners, including assisters and insurance agents, can help you:
- Report changes
- Understand your coverage options
- Compare programs and plans
- Apply for health coverage
- Learn about financial help that may be available
Help is available at no cost and available near you.