What To Do If You Missed Open Enrollment

We all know that open enrollment is November 1st through December 15th. The time where we are able to enroll in the next year's plan for health insurance. Did you miss last year's open enrollment period? Have you realized that maybe the ACA (Affordable Care Act) isn't quite as affordable as you would like?

YOU HAVE OTHER OPTIONS

So, let's talk about your other options. There are a couple of different plans you can enroll in year-round:

• Christian Share Plans

• Short Term Plans

• Indemnity Plans

Christian Share Plans - Not actually insurance, but share programs. Participants pay a monthly contribution, and benefits are based on the plan you choose. There are waiting periods for most services such as preventive care and surgeries, and there is a maximum benefit amount. There is typically a one-time membership fee of $125. Benefits can start the very next day.

Short Term Plans - Are short term in scope, 30 days up to 3 years.  They do not cover any preventive care nor do they cover any preexisting conditions. Short Term Plans are ideal for people between group coverage and ACA plans. Coverage can start the very next day.

Indemnity Plans - You can add to existing coverage or they can stand alone.  Many include hospital indemnity plans that pay directly to the client when they go into the hospital for an inpatient stay. There are also surgical plans, cancer plans, short term home healthcare plans, and critical illness plans. When the policyholder gets a diagnosis the plan pays based on benefits purchased. 

If you missed your enrollment period, there is no need to panic. You have other options, and I am here to answer all of your questions.