Open Enrollment is the time when you can make changes to your individual health insurance, no special life event required. If you’re switching plans, canceling coverage, or just making sure everything stays on track, here’s what you need to know.
First Things First: Decide What You Want to Do
During Open Enrollment, you can:
Keep your current plan (most plans will auto‑renew if you do nothing)
Switch to a different plan
Cancel your plan altogether
One important thing to know: signing up for a new plan doesn’t always cancel your old one automatically. This is where people often run into issues.
If You Need to Cancel a Plan
If you’re canceling your current plan or switching to a new one, you’ll need to do that directly with the insurance company or the Marketplace where you enrolled.
Enrolled through HealthCare.gov or a state exchange? Cancel through your Marketplace account.
Bought your plan directly from an insurer? Contact the insurance carrier.
Take Command can’t cancel plans for you—only you (the policyholder) or the Marketplace can do that.
Pro tip: Always ask for written confirmation after canceling. It can save you from billing or coverage headaches later.
Enrolling in a New Plan
If you’re switching plans, make sure you:
Cancel (or confirm the end of) your old plan if needed
Enroll in your new plan by the Open Enrollment deadline
For most states, you’ll need to choose a plan by December 15 for coverage to start on January 1, though some states may have different deadlines.
Don’t Forget to Update Take Command
If you receive benefits through Take Command:
Upload proof of your new coverage, or
Let us know if you chose to waive coverage
Here are instructions on how to waive your coverage:
How do I waive coverage through QSEHRA?
HRA Hub; Waiving Your HRA
This step is required so your HRA benefits stay compliant and your reimbursements continue without interruption.
A Few Final Notes
Some insurance carriers require you to formally cancel even if the plan hasn’t started yet.
If you don’t cancel properly, you could end up with overlapping coverage or unexpected premium bills.
Keep copies of all confirmation emails or letters, just in case.