August 30th, 2013
On this day the Obama administration published final rules for the Affordable Care Act via a federal register.
January 1st, 2014
The first day Americans were able to use their Obamacare coverage. Other provisions came into effect at earlier dates but 2014 was the first year individuals actually began receiving health insurance under the law’s individual mandate.
March 31st, 2014
This was the last day to sign up for healthcare coverage or face the Affordable Care Act fine, if you’re without an exemption. On April 1st, you were considered to have exceeded your short term coverage gap allowance for 2014 meaning you could be subject to an ACA fine.
November 15th, 2014
Open enrollment began for the 2nd year of Obamacare.
January 1st, 2015
The 2nd year of the Affordable Care Act takes effect.
January 31st, 2015
This was the last day to avoid a 2015 Obamacare penalty for those who were uninsured for the entire month of November and December of 2014. This is based on the virtually unknown straddle rule.
February 15th, 2015
This was the last day to sign up for Obamacare in 2015 to avoid a fine.
April 15th, 2015
This was the first time Americans were subject to an IRS penalty for being uninsured.
November 15th, 2015
Open enrollment began for the 3rd year of Obamacare or the Affordable Care Act.
January 1st, 2016
The 3rd year of Obamacare takes effect.
November 1st, 2016
Open enrollment begins for the 4th year of Obamacare.
December 15th, 2016
The last day to enroll if you want coverage starting January 1st, 2017
January 1st, 2017
The 4th year of Obamacare takes effect.
January 31st, 2017
The final day to sign up in 2017 without qualifying for a Special Enrollment Period.