Reviewed for accuracy on November 3, 2026 by Tina Price, one of Grove's licensed advisors.
Colorado's tax-time enrollment: getting covered when you file
Colorado's state tax return has a box to say you're uninsured and want to find out about free or low-cost coverage. If you check it, you can get a 60-day window to buy a plan through Connect for Health Colorado, outside open enrollment.
Last updated November 3, 2026
The short version
- Check the uninsured box on your Colorado state tax return.
- You'll find out whether to apply for financial help, Health First Colorado or CHP+.
- Through Connect for Health Colorado, you have 60 days from applying to choose a plan.
- Coverage starts the first day of the month after you choose.
How it works
When you file your Colorado state taxes, you can check a box to say you or someone in your household is uninsured. It's a way to find out whether you qualify for free or low-cost coverage.
Connect for Health Colorado then helps you see whether to apply for financial help on a plan, or for Health First Colorado or CHP+.
Your window to enroll
If you buy a plan through Connect for Health Colorado this way, you have 60 days from the date you apply to choose one. Your plan starts the first day of the month after you choose.
Health First Colorado and CHP+ don't need a window. You can apply for them any time.
Connect for Health Colorado treats returns filed before and after the tax deadline differently. Check their tax-time page for your situation.
Next step
Checked the box and not sure what to do next? Price your plans here, or call a licensed Grove advisor. It costs you nothing.
Want a person to check your pick? A licensed Grove advisor will, at no cost. If you make Grove your broker, you can keep calling the same advisor after you enroll.
Compare plansPrices in your countyCall (970) 840-1130
Common questions
Does checking the box sign me up?
No. It starts the process. You still choose a plan, or apply for Health First Colorado or CHP+.
Sources
- Connect for Health Colorado: tax time enrollment
- C.R.S. 10-16-105.7: special enrollment, including pregnancy (effective January 1, 2024)
- Health First Colorado: apply now
This guide is general information, not tax or legal advice. Connect for Health Colorado decides eligibility and tax credits.