Change Health Plan After Enrollment?
Can I Change My Health Insurance Plan After Enrollment?
It's a common question: "Can I change my health insurance plan after open enrollment?" While the general rule is that you can't make changes after the open enrollment period ends, there are some important exceptions. Let's explore the ins and outs of changing your health plan after enrollment.
The General Rule and the Exception
Typically, you can only enroll in or change your health insurance plan during the annual open enrollment period. However, life throws curveballs, and your healthcare needs might change unexpectedly. That's where Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) come in.
What is a Special Enrollment Period?
An SEP is a period outside of open enrollment when you can enroll in or change your health insurance plan if you experience a qualifying life event. These events are significant changes in your life that may affect your healthcare needs or eligibility for coverage.
Qualifying Life Events
Here are some examples of qualifying life events that may make you eligible for an SEP:
Changes in Household: Marriage, divorce, birth, adoption, death in the family
Loss of Coverage: Losing job-based coverage, aging off a parent's plan, losing eligibility for Medicaid or CHIP
Moving: Relocating to a new ZIP code or county that affects your plan options
Changes in Income: Experiencing a change in income that affects your eligibility for subsidies
Recently Eligible for a Health Insurance Subsidy: If you have coverage through and employer and your family qualifies for the “Family Glitch”. Employer coverage is considered “unaffordable”.
Other Qualifying Events: Becoming a U.S. citizen, leaving incarceration, if you are an American Indian/Alaska Native, or have low income based on FPL.
How to Change Your Plan During an SEP
If you experience a qualifying life event, you usually have 60 days from the date of the event to enroll in a new plan or change your existing one. Here's what you need to do:
Contact Your Insurance Provider or the Marketplace: Report your qualifying life event to see if it qualifies for an SEP.
Choose a New Plan: Explore your plan options and select the one that best meets your current needs and budget.
Enroll in Your New Plan: Complete the enrollment process and ensure your coverage is active.
How Revive Insurance Can Help
Navigating SEPs and understanding your options can be confusing. Revive Insurance is here to help! Our experienced agents can:
Determine if you qualify for an SEP
Guide you through the application process
Help you understand your coverage options
Ensure you find the best plan for your needs and budget
Don't Hesitate to Reach Out!
