A qualifying event can be a change in life that qualifies you for enrollment in a different health plan, outside of a regular open enrollment period. The most common qualifying life events are having a baby or adopting a child and moving into a new home.
One of the most significant things a parent can do is to have a child. Consider the best type of coverage for your family. You can lower your costs if you add a newborn into your high-deductible plan.
Another reason that it's so important to be prepared for major life changes is that they may trigger special enrollment periods, which give you more flexibility when it comes to choosing a plan. These special periods of enrollment can take place at any time throughout the year. They allow you to pick a plan as long as 60 days are left before a qualifying event such a birth or marriage.
Loss in Coverage is an Event Qualifying
Losing the minimum essential health coverage is one of the most common events that can trigger a special period. You must show proof that you lost your coverage if, for example, you got divorced.
A special enrollment period can also be created if there are other qualifying events. An example is if your plan ends when you reach 26. This is because turning 26 is an age when you no longer qualify for the same types of coverage that you did as a younger adult.
The new job is an event that qualifies
You can expect to get a special enrollment window if you start a new position. This will allow you to enroll in employer-based insurance. If you choose to purchase your own insurance, your employer-based coverage will not take effect until the next open registration period.
Change of residence is a qualifier
Gwen, who is moving from Miami to Philadelphia to live with her family, may be eligible to enroll in a new health plan that will protect her and her entire family. This is a good way to save money because she won't be paying premiums for the old plan if she stays in her home.
Divorce can be a qualifying event
Max, 25, a Brooklyn-based man, can enroll in a different plan if he divorces his wife. This will help him and his children to continue receiving the medical care they require. Anthem's plans can be adapted to your changing life circumstances.
You may have a special period of enrollment if, for example, you are a new student without dependents. You may be eligible for a different special enrollment period if you are a member of an organized religious group.