if you buy a plan by 12/23 coverage will start by january 1. open enrollment runs through march 31 2014. if you're unemployed you'll likely qualify for medicaid or subsidies to help pay for coverage. if you earn too little to file taxes you won't be penalized if you don't buy insurance.
how soon after signing up for health insurance can i see a doctor? . can you sign up or be penalized if you are unemployed?