A qualifying experience is a significant life change that makes it possible to enroll in an alternative health plan outside the open enrollment periods. A qualifying event can include adopting a kid, having a newborn, or moving to a different residence.
As a parent, having a baby is the most important thing you can do. It's also a good time to consider the type of coverage that works best for your family. Add a newborn child to your health insurance coverage if you have a plan with a high deductible. This will lower your out of pocket costs.
You can choose your plan more easily if you are prepared for life's major changes. These special enrollment period can happen at any time during the year. You are usually able to select a plan 60 days prior to a qualifying life event, like a marriage or birth.
The loss of insurance coverage qualifies as a qualifying event
The most common qualifying situation that leads to a special enrollment is when you lose minimum essential health insurance. If you have lost coverage due to a divorce, or any other reason, you'll need to prove that in order for you to enroll in another plan.
There are also other events that qualify, like turning 26 and losing coverage from your parents' plan. Turning 26 means you can no longer get the same type of coverage you had as a young adult.
New Job as Qualifying Events
You should expect a special registration period if you are starting a job. During this time, you can sign up for the employer's coverage. However, if you pick up your own coverage, you will have to wait until the next open enrollment period for your current employer-based coverage to take effect.
A change in residence is a qualifying event
Gwen may be able sign up for a health insurance plan if she moves with her family from Miami to Philadelphia. This will help her protect herself and her family. This could be a great way to save money, as she'll no longer be paying the premiums that would have been required had she stayed in her old home.
Divorce is a Qualifying Event
Max, 25-year-old Brooklyn man who is divorced from his spouse, can enroll in another plan in order to make sure that he, his children, and their health care needs are met. You should review your Anthem options as many carriers of health insurance offer plans that can adapt to changing circumstances.
There are some exceptions. For example, if a student is a brand new one and does not yet have dependents. Or if a special enrollment has already been established. If you belong to a religious community, you might be entitled to a special period of enrollment.