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 these qualifying events include moving, adopting children, or having a birth.
Having a new baby is one of the most important things to do as a new parent. You should also consider what kind of coverage is best for your family. A newborn is a great way to reduce your out-of pocket expenses if your plan has a high deductible.
Special enrollment periods may be triggered by major life changes, giving you more flexibility to choose a plan. These special enrollment periods can occur anytime during the year and usually allow you to choose a plan up to 60 days before a qualifying event occurs, such as birth or marriage.
The loss of insurance coverage qualifies as a qualifying event
The loss of minimum essential coverage for health is the most common qualifying event. 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.
You may also qualify for a special enrollment period if, after turning 26, you no longer have coverage through your parent's policy. 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 as Qualifying Events
If you get a new job, you can usually expect to receive a special enrollment period that allows you to sign up for employer-based coverage. If you purchase your own coverage you'll have to wait for the next enrollment period before your current coverage takes effect.
Change of Residence is an Event Qualifying
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
If Max, a 25-year-old man living in Brooklyn, gets divorced from his wife, he can enroll in a new plan to help ensure that he and his children continue to have the health care they need. 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. You may be eligible for a different special enrollment period if you are a member of an organized religious group.