How moving impacts your health insurance
It’s not just your address that changes when you move — your health insurance options can too! In many cases, permanently moving to a new area makes you eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). Whether you moved down the street or across the country, here’s what you need to know about moving and health insurance — and how Wellmark can help you explore your options.
Keep in mind, this guidance is specifically for those who have individual or family health plans through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance Marketplace®. If you have coverage available through an employer, you should discuss your options with them.
How your health insurance options may change after moving
When you move to a new service area, you may have different options for health insurance than before. The number of plans available may change, network access may vary and your costs could be different as well. This is largely because premiums, deductibles and the availability of premium tax credits (subsidies) vary by ZIP code, region and state.
You’ll want to consider all these factors when weighing your coverage options and give yourself time to decide. For most health insurance plans, coverage begins the first of the month after you enroll. To avoid gaps in coverage, start this process immediately after moving.
What is a Special Enrollment Period?
A Special Enrollment Period is a time when you can change your health plan or enroll in a new one outside of the annual Open Enrollment Period (OEP). To qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you must experience a qualifying life event, like moving.
Learn more about qualifying life events
Have you recently experienced a big change in life? See common examples of qualifying life events and get guidance on what to do next.
Does my move qualify for a Special Enrollment Period?
Moving is a qualified life event if you make a permanent move to an area outside of your previous health plan’s service area. This can include moving to a different ZIP code or county, a different state or when you move back to the United States from a foreign country or U.S. territory. You may also qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you’re moving to or from school, a seasonal job or out of transitional housing.
You must already have a health insurance plan before your move to qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.
Situations where moving is not a qualifying life event
You will not qualify for a Special Enrollment Period in the following situations:
- Traveling for vacation.
- Moving to an in-patient facility for medical treatment.
How to change your health insurance plan after moving
In most cases, you’ll have 60 days after moving to report your move to the Health Insurance Marketplace and select a new health plan. You’ll likely need some form of documentation of your new address, so keep a copy of your new rental agreement, utility bill, deed or mortgage handy.
This checklist outlines what to do after moving.
- Step 1: Update your address and household information.
- Step 2: Check if your current plan is available in your new area.
- Step 3: Review any new plan options available to you.
- Step 4: Enroll in a plan within your Special Enrollment Period timeframe.
Get help finding a new individual or family plan after moving
If you’ve recently moved and qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, choose a new plan soon. Wellmark is here to help you feel confident when choosing new coverage. Learn more about what to consider when selecting an individual or family plan. If you have coverage available through an employer, you should discuss your options with them.