Health insurance once laid off

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Author

Posted: Mon Apr 05, 2010 11:16 am Post subject: Health insurance once laid off

Our company is shutting down and one of my primary concerns is my health insurance. Do I have any options once I lose my employment benefits? _________________ Register Now to have your Insurance queries solved.

Purpledreams

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Posted: Tue Apr 06, 2010 2:11 am Post subject:

You should be eligible for COBRA, which will allow you to keep your current coverage paying the full premium of the plan. Generally, you'll be able to continue coverage for 18 months.

BNTRS

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Posted: Tue Apr 06, 2010 4:02 am Post subject:

Remember, though, that COBRA only applies to employers with 20 or more employees. Employees of smaller employers, depending on the state, usually have some sort of mechanism in which they are guaranteed the availability of coverage if they lose their group insurance due to an employer terminating the group plan. Depends of the state. InsTeacher

InsTeacher

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Posted: Tue Apr 06, 2010 12:25 pm Post subject:

You have to find a cheaper alternative, but you just can't go without coverage. Medical bills are one of the primary causes why people are forced to file for bankruptcy today! You should consult with an agent in your locality and try to find an alternative coverage for you and your family. _________________ Register Now to have your Insurance queries solved.

anonymous00

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Posted: Sat Apr 10, 2010 12:25 pm Post subject:

Are you married? Some employees may add their family members under the health insurance plans offered by their employers. Check if you can have insurance through your spouse's employer.

steven

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Posted: Sun Apr 11, 2010 8:15 pm Post subject:

For group plans that allow spousal coverage; there is normally a 30-day open enrollment period that will allow spouses to be added to group plans that begins as soon as their former group coverage has terminated. Talk to HR- they should be able to let you know what's going on and whether your spouse's plan will let you in. InsTeacher

InsTeacher

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Posted: Mon Apr 12, 2010 8:30 pm Post subject:

You've all missed the important statement in the OPs first 5 words: "Our company is shutting down . . ." COBRA will not be an option if there is no continuing group plan to cover employees. OPs primary option will be to exercise HIPAA portability into an individual plan, or find new employment offering group health coverage -- either of which must occur within 62 days of termination of employment. OP says nothing about a spouse with group coverage, but if there was one, HIPAA provides for immediate entry into the plan (or at least as soon as the first day of the next month following application to the plan). _________________ CA-licensed P&C Broker-Agent and Life Agent. CA Insurance Lic #0596197. Now investigating insurance company abuses, and providing litigation support and expert witness services. Send me your questions, and I'll send you my answers.

MaxHerr

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Posted: Sat Apr 17, 2010 4:43 am Post subject: Pet insurance

Can anyone recommend good pet insurance that covers pre-existing conditions and preventive care? _________________ Register Now to have your Insurance queries solved.