I just applied for an Aetna on-exchange plan through healthcare.gov. When can I submit payement?

After you have chosen a plan and submitted enrollment to the marketplace, you just need to pay their first month’s premium for their plan to become active on their effective date. All individuals have the opportunity to make their first payment immediately after they submit their enrollment to make sure their coverage becomes active.

You are also able to set up their ongoing payment process at the same time.

If premium is not received, coverage will not start.