A qualifying event is a life change that makes you eligible to enroll in a new health plan outside of an annual open enrollment period. Some of the most common qualifying events include having a baby, adopting a child, and moving to a new residence.
The birth of a newborn is one thing that every new parent should do. You should also consider what kind of coverage is 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 registration periods can occur any time of the year. Usually, you have 60 days to choose your plan before a qualifying change occurs such as a new baby or marriage.
Loss of coverage is a qualifying event
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.
Special enrollment periods can be triggered by other qualifying events. For example, if you lose your coverage under the plan of your parents when you turn 26, or if you become 26 years old. 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.
New Job is a Qualifying Event
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. You will need to wait until next open enrollment to get your employer's coverage if you decide to buy your own.
Change of Residence is an Event Qualifying
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 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 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. Reviewing your Anthem coverage options is a great idea, since many insurance companies offer flexible plans to accommodate changing circumstances.
If you are a first-year student and do not have dependents or have an existing special enrollment period, you may be eligible for a special registration period. If you're a member of a religious congregation, you may have additional exceptions that make you eligible for a special enrollment period.