What dates should I mark on my calendar?

For shopping in the exchange for new coverage:

There are 3 key dates to remember: 

• October 1, 2013: Open enrollment starts
• January 1, 2014: Health coverage can start
• March 31, 2014: Open enrollment ends

If you want to secure new coverage and try to lower your costs based on your household income, you'll need to make a plan selection during Open Enrollment. If you miss it, you'll have to wait until the next year's Open Enrollment to qualify for lower costs (October 1, 2014-December 31, 2014)

You can apply for Medicaid and CHIP any time

Medicaid provides low-cost or no-cost insurance to low-income individuals or families. Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides insurance to children whose family's incomes are too high for Medicaid but they still need some financial assistance. These are both administered by your state and can vary depending on where you live. If you qualify for Medicaid or CHIP, your coverage can begin immediately. You can also apply for coverage at any time. 

Self-Employed will use the Individual and Family Exchange to secure coverage

Under the law, if you are Self-Employed (business of one), then you are not considered an "employer" under the Affordable Care Act. Therefore, you'll be able to use the exchange to qualify for lower monthly premiums or out-of-pocket expenses based on your household income on new plans... if you don't have access to an affordable job-based plan through your spouse's employer or other government-sponsored coverage. Be sure to mark those 3 dates at the top of this post on your calendar  Open Enrollment rules will apply to you.

Small employers can start coverage any time

A small employer has less than 50 full-time equivalent employees. Small employers generally may start offering health insurance coverage to their employees through the exchange at any time during the year.

Large employers can start coverage any time

A large employer has 50 or more full-time equivalent employees. Small employers generally may start offering health insurance coverage to their employees through the exchange at any time during the year.