How to Change Health Insurance
If your health insurance is no longer working for you, it’s simple enough to change plans – here’s how it works.
When Can I Change My Health Insurance?
You can enroll in Medicaid at any time. Otherwise, you can switch during the Open Enrollment Period or the Special Enrollment Period.
- Open Enrollment Period: You can change your health insurance during the annual Open Enrollment Period. The dates vary slightly depending on the plan, but Open Enrollment normally takes place between October and January each year.
- Special Enrollment Period: Certain life events, such as moving state, having a baby, or getting married, trigger a Special Enrollment Period during which you can change policies.
Some job-based plans have slightly different enrollment plans, so always check with your employer if you’re unsure.
How Long Does it Take to Change Health Insurance?
Here’s the good news: changing health insurance is quick and easy, and it’s even faster with our help. It only takes a few minutes to complete our form or call our agents, and we’ll help you select and sign up for health insurance as quickly as possible if you’re eligible.
How to Change Health Insurance
Changing health insurance providers or switching plans is simple.
- When the Open Enrollment Period comes around, review your existing policy. Consider what changes you need to make so you know what coverage you’re looking for.
- Think about how much you can afford to pay each month and bear this in mind when shopping around.
- Compare quotes online or let our friendly team help you choose and enroll in a new plan.
If you’re in a Special Enrollment Period, you may need to provide proof of this before getting insurance.
Canceling Your Health Insurance
You can normally terminate your health insurance plan whenever it suits you (unless your employer places restrictions on this). To end the plan, just call the insurer and advise them of your wish to cancel. You can choose a date for coverage to end or you can end the plan immediately.
How to Change Health Insurance When Moving Out of State
Some health insurance policies expire when you cross state lines, or they might not offer you the same level of cover. If this happens to you, it’s simple to switch policies.
- Moving to a new state is a qualifying event which triggers a Special Enrollment Period. So, you can easily change plans or coverage at any time of year to suit your new circumstances.
- Shop around for a new insurance plan which meets your needs, and apply within 60 days of moving. Otherwise, you may not qualify for the Special Enrollment Period any longer.
- Your new coverage probably won’t start right away. To cover the gap, consider taking out short-term health insurance. These plans take effect from the day you apply so you’ll be covered immediately.
At Healthedly, we can help you find, compare, and enroll in the best available individual and family health plans. To learn more about how to cancel your health insurance, or to switch plans, contact us now.
