Certified Application Counselor Practice Test

To qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), which of the following life events might apply?

1. Changing employment status

2. Being denied a prior health plan

3. Getting married or having a child

4. Relocating to a new state

The correct answer is: Getting married or having a child

Getting married or having a child is a significant life event that qualifies individuals for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). Such life changes are recognized under the guidelines of health care enrollment as they often affect an individual's or family's health coverage needs. When someone gets married or becomes a parent, their insurance requirements may change, therefore allowing them to enroll in or change their health insurance plan outside of the standard open enrollment period. This provision helps ensure that people can access necessary health care during major transitions in their life circumstances. Other life events, like changing employment status, typically relate to different circumstances for qualifying for SEPs but may not necessarily pertain to health insurance eligibility unless they result in losing coverage. Being denied a prior health plan does not trigger an SEP, as eligibility generally focuses on changes in circumstances rather than past denials. Relocating to a new state may lead to other options for enrollment, particularly if the move results in a loss of coverage or impacts the available plans, but it does not automatically qualify for an SEP. In contrast, the birth or adoption of a child or getting married directly affects health care coverage and thus qualifies for an SEP.