> We’ve got a strategy for dealing with the COBRA expiration, but it’s complicated and requires a lot of hoop jumping and is more than a little silly.
Whatever the author's strategy is, it sounds like he's quite misinformed. There are no hoops required to get HIPAA guaranteed issue coverage when COBRA runs out. All insurers are required to offer it regardless of preexisting conditions. It will cost more, but coverage is automatic with no medical information required.
The usual procedure is to simultaneously apply for underwritten coverage and guaranteed issue. If the underwritten policy is declined, the guaranteed issue takes effect. If you know you'll be declined, you can skip the medical history on the application and apply for guaranteed issue only. You have 60 days after COBRA runs out to apply.
You are also eligible if your insurance ends because the company goes out of business without making COBRA available.
Any insurance company or agent can give you more information, or search for:
Whatever the author's strategy is, it sounds like he's quite misinformed. There are no hoops required to get HIPAA guaranteed issue coverage when COBRA runs out. All insurers are required to offer it regardless of preexisting conditions. It will cost more, but coverage is automatic with no medical information required.
The usual procedure is to simultaneously apply for underwritten coverage and guaranteed issue. If the underwritten policy is declined, the guaranteed issue takes effect. If you know you'll be declined, you can skip the medical history on the application and apply for guaranteed issue only. You have 60 days after COBRA runs out to apply.
You are also eligible if your insurance ends because the company goes out of business without making COBRA available.
Any insurance company or agent can give you more information, or search for:
California HIPAA guaranteed issue