Can Moving To A Different Zip Code Qualify As A Special Enrollment Period Under ACA?

Did you miss the open enrollment period for health insurance and are now wondering if you have any options to enroll? You may be in luck if you’re planning to move to a different zip code later this year. Moving to a different zip code can be considered a Qualifying Life Event (QLE) under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), allowing you to enroll in a health insurance plan outside the annual Open Enrollment Period.

What is a Qualifying Life Event (QLE)?

A Qualifying Life Event (QLE) is a specific event or change in your life that allows you to enroll in health insurance outside the regular Open Enrollment Period. The ACA established a list of qualifying life events to ensure that individuals have access to health coverage when they experience significant life changes that affect their health insurance needs. These events include:
– Losing health coverage
– Getting married or divorced
– Having a baby or adopting a child
– Moving to a new home
– Experiencing a job loss or change in employment
– Turning 26 years old and no longer eligible for your parent’s plan

Can Moving To A Different Zip Code Be A QLE?

Now, let’s talk about the specific case of moving to a different zip code. Moving to a different zip code is not explicitly listed as a QLE under the ACA. However, there are situations where moving to a different zip code can trigger a QLE:
– Loss of Health Coverage: If you move to a new zip code and your current health insurance plan does not cover the new location, you may lose health coverage. In this scenario, moving to a different zip code would qualify as a loss of health coverage, making it a QLE.
– Change in Network: If you move to a new zip code and your current health insurance plan has no in-network providers in the new location, this could also be considered a QLE. You would need to enroll in a new health insurance plan with in-network providers in your new zip code.

How To Qualify For A Special Enrollment Period Due To Moving?

To qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to moving, you must:
– Move to a new zip code that is not covered by your current health insurance plan.
– Enroll in a new health insurance plan within 60 days of moving to the new zip code.
– Provide proof of your move, such as a new driver’s license or utility bill with your new address.

How To Enroll In A Health Insurance Plan Outside Of Open Enrollment?

If you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you can enroll in a health insurance plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace or directly through an insurance company.

1. Enroll Through The Health Insurance Marketplace: Visit HealthCare.gov or contact a licensed agent to enroll in a health insurance plan. You will need to provide proof of your QLE, such as documentation of your move to a new zip code.
2. Enroll Directly Through An Insurance Company: You can also contact an insurance company directly to enroll in a health insurance plan outside of Open Enrollment. The insurance company may require you to provide proof of your QLE before enrolling you in a plan.

Conclusion

Moving to a different zip code can be a QLE under the ACA, allowing you to enroll in a health insurance plan outside the annual Open Enrollment Period. However, it’s important to note that not all moves will qualify as a QLE. If you are moving to a new zip code and are unsure if it will trigger a QLE, it is recommended to contact a licensed agent or visit HealthCare.gov for more information.