Getting married is one of life’s biggest milestones — and it comes with some important health insurance decisions. Here’s what Ohio couples need to know.

Marriage Is a Special Enrollment Period — What That Means for You

When you get married, you don’t have to wait until open enrollment to make changes to your health insurance. Getting married qualifies as a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), which means you have a 60-day window from your wedding date to make changes to your coverage — or enroll in a new plan altogether.

This is a big deal. Outside of open enrollment (which typically runs November 1 through January 15), most people can’t change their health insurance at all. Marriage gives you a rare and time-sensitive opportunity to review and update your coverage as a couple.

Don’t miss the 60-day window. If you do, you’ll likely have to wait until the next open enrollment period to make any changes.

Your Options After Getting Married

Once you’re married, you have several paths to consider:

1. Join Your Spouse’s Employer Plan

If your spouse has employer-sponsored health insurance, you may be able to join their plan as a dependent. This is often one of the most affordable options, especially if their employer covers a significant portion of the premium. Be sure to compare the plan’s coverage, network, and out-of-pocket costs before signing on.

2. Add Your Spouse to Your Employer Plan

The reverse is equally possible — if you have a strong employer plan, it may make sense for your new spouse to join your coverage. Again, compare the plan details and cost-sharing before deciding.

3. Each Keep Your Own Employer Plans

In some cases, it actually makes sense for each spouse to keep their own individual employer-sponsored coverage. This can work well when both plans have low premiums and strong benefits. The downside is you won’t share a combined deductible or out-of-pocket maximum.

4. One or Both of You Purchase an Individual Plan

If neither of you has access to employer-sponsored coverage — or if you’re self-employed, a freelancer, or working part-time — you may need to shop for individual or family coverage on your own. This is where working with a licensed independent broker like Ohio Health Benefits can make a significant difference.

5. Explore the Health Insurance Marketplace

Through healthcare.gov, you may qualify for a subsidized plan based on your combined household income. An independent broker like OHB can help you determine if you’re eligible for premium tax credits and find the best plan for your situation.

Should You Combine Coverage or Stay Separate?

This is one of the most common questions newlyweds have, and the answer isn’t always obvious. Here are a few factors to consider:

  • Cost of premiums: Compare the monthly cost of a joint plan vs. two individual plans.
  • Network of doctors: Make sure your preferred doctors and specialists are in-network.
  • Prescription coverage: If either of you takes regular medications, verify formulary coverage.
  • Deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums: Family plans share costs, which can be an advantage or disadvantage depending on how much care you expect to use.
  • Employer contributions: Many employers only contribute to the employee’s premium, not a spouse’s — so adding a spouse can be expensive.

OHB can walk you through a side-by-side comparison so you’re not guessing.

What About the Marketplace and Subsidies?

If you don’t have access to affordable employer coverage, the Health Insurance Marketplace (healthcare.gov) may be a good option. After getting married, your combined household income will now be used to determine your eligibility for premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions.

Keep in mind:

  • If your new spouse had Marketplace coverage as a single person, that plan and subsidy amount will change.
  • You’ll want to report your marriage to the Marketplace promptly to avoid owing money back at tax time.

Don’t Forget These Coverage Details

While you’re focused on premiums, don’t overlook the finer details of your health plan:

  • In-network providers: Confirm that both spouses’ doctors are covered.
  • Maternity coverage: If you’re planning to start a family, review maternity and newborn care benefits carefully.
  • Mental health benefits: Federal law requires most plans to cover mental health services equally to medical services.
  • Dental and vision: These are typically separate from medical coverage — now is a good time to evaluate both.
  • Life insurance and disability coverage: Marriage is also the right time to review or add these protections.

How Ohio Health Benefits Can Help

Choosing the right health insurance as a newly married couple doesn’t have to be stressful — but it does require careful comparison. That’s where Ohio Health Benefits comes in.

Ohio Health Benefits is a locally-owned and operated independent insurance broker serving all of Ohio, with offices in Tallmadge, Hiram, and Canton. As an independent broker, we’re not tied to any single insurance company. Instead, we work with a wide range of national and Ohio-based carriers to find the plan that’s the right fit for your needs and budget.

Here’s why Ohio couples trust Ohio Health Benefits:

  • No cost to you. Ohio Health Benefits does not charge for their services — our expertise comes at no extra cost.
  • Unbiased advice. As an independent broker, we work for you, not the insurance company.
  • Personal attention. We’re known for flexibility, dependability, and genuine care for our clients.
  • Year-round support. Our team is available throughout the year — not just during enrollment season.
  • We know Ohio. With a deep understanding of both national and Ohio-based plans, we match you with coverage that fits your life.

Whether you’re comparing employer plans, exploring the Marketplace, or looking for individual coverage, Ohio Health Benefits takes the guesswork out of the process.

Ready to Make the Right Choice for Your Health Coverage?

Don’t let the 60-day Special Enrollment Period slip by. Reach out to Ohio Health Benefits today by calling 330-633-7713, or reach out online to schedule your consultation and get personalized guidance from a licensed broker who knows the Ohio market inside and out.

Getting married is a fresh start. Make sure your health coverage is ready for whatever comes next.