How often can individuals typically change their health insurance plan?

Individuals typically can change their health insurance plan primarily during specific periods, which include the annual enrollment period and after experiencing a qualifying life event. This structure is designed to create a time frame in which consumers can assess their healthcare needs and make adjustments accordingly.

The annual enrollment period allows individuals to review their current health plans and decide on changes, such as switching plans or enrolling in new coverage. During this time, typically occurring once a year, individuals can take advantage of the ability to choose a plan that better fits their needs or budget.

Furthermore, qualifying life events—such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or moving to a new state—trigger special enrollment periods. These events warrant the opportunity to change health insurance plans outside of the regular enrollment season, acknowledging that significant life changes can alter an individual's healthcare needs.

Therefore, the correct answer is that individuals can only change their health insurance plan after either a qualifying life event or during the annual enrollment period, reflecting the structured nature of health insurance policies and the regulations governing their changes.