Haris Ashley
Moving to a new state can be a stressful experience, and it can be made even more challenging if you need to transfer your medical insurance. It is important to plan ahead to avoid any gaps in coverage and unexpected out-of-pocket expenses. The first step is to report your change of address to the Marketplace and determine if you need to pick a new plan, as coverage options and savings may change based on your new state. If your current insurance plan terminates upon your move, you may be offered an extension through the COBRA program. You may also need to consider enrolling in short-term health insurance to cover you during the transition. Once you have settled into your new state, you can then take the time to research and select a new long-term health insurance plan that best suits your needs and budget.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to update your address | As soon as you move out of state |
| How to update your address | Log into your Marketplace account, go to your applications, select the year and your new state |
| What happens if you don't update your address | You may have to pay for coverage that doesn't apply in your new state |
| When does new coverage start | The 1st of the month after you move |
| What if you get sick or injured during the transition period | You may have to pay substantial medical bills out-of-pocket |
| What to do if you get sick or injured during the transition period | Enroll in a short-term health insurance plan |
| What if you have a new job with benefits lined up | There may be a waiting period of 30-90 days before coverage begins |
| What if you need to buy a new plan | You'll have 60 days from the time of your move to enroll in a qualified health insurance plan through the federal marketplace, your new state's exchange, or elsewhere |
| What if you can't afford your premium | See if you qualify for subsidies for an ACA marketplace plan |
| What if you have a domestic partner on your current plan | Check whether the new plan provides partner benefits |
| What if you need to see a specialist | Check if the new plan includes this type of provider |
| What if your children live in another state | You can cover them through your healthcare plan if they are under 26 |
| What if your employer transfers you to another state | You will likely stay on their sponsored plan, providing it has a complete network in the new city |
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What You'll Learn
Report your address change to the Marketplace
To report your address change to the Marketplace, you will need to update your application. This can be done online, by phone, or in person. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Log in to Your Marketplace Account
Go to the HealthCare.gov website and log in to your Marketplace account.
Step 2: Navigate to Your Profile
Once logged in, select your name in the top right corner of the screen. From the options that appear, choose "My Profile."
Step 3: Edit Your Address
In your profile, you will see an "Address" field. Select the "Edit" option next to it. Here, you can input your new address. Make sure to include your full ZIP code to ensure the most accurate address information.
Step 4: Review and Update Your Application
After updating your address, navigate through your existing application and make any necessary edits. You will then be prompted to re-submit your application. This step will not disrupt your current coverage.
Step 5: Report a Life Change
Click on "Report a Life Change" on the left-hand menu. This will initiate the process of reporting your move to a new state.
Step 6: Select the Year and New State
Choose the year you want coverage for and select your new state from the drop-down menu. If your new state runs its own Marketplace, you will be directed to its website to complete your application.
Step 7: Compare Plans and Prices
After submitting your application for your new state, you will be presented with a range of plans and prices available to you. Take the time to review and compare these options.
Step 8: Pick a Plan and Enroll
Choose a plan that suits your needs and pay your first month's premium to complete your enrollment.
It is important to report your address change to the Marketplace as soon as possible to ensure continuous coverage and avoid paying for insurance that is not applicable in your new state. By following these steps, you can seamlessly transfer your medical insurance to another state and maintain your healthcare coverage.
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Enroll in a short-term health insurance plan
Enrolling in a short-term health insurance plan can be a good option for those who are generally healthy and do not require regular health services or prescription medications. Short-term health insurance is often sought by those who want a health plan in case of an emergency or need immediate coverage. Short-term health insurance is not meant to replace ACA-compliant coverage but rather to act as a bridge between coverage gaps. For example, if you are between jobs or are newly employed and have a waiting period before you can enrol in your employer's health benefits plan.
Short-term health insurance plans are typically much more affordable than major medical plans, with monthly premiums starting at $55 compared to at least $225 for major medical coverage. However, it is important to note that short-term plans do not cover pre-existing conditions and may not include benefits such as maternity care, mental health care, preventive care, and prescription drugs. Short-term plans are also not required to comply with certain federal market requirements for health insurance, such as those contained in the Affordable Care Act.
If you are considering enrolling in a short-term health insurance plan, you can visit websites such as eHealth to compare plans and prices and get a personalized quote. Short-term plans can take effect as soon as the day after your application is received, and you may also choose a later effective date based on your individual needs.
It is important to carefully review the details of any short-term health insurance plan you are considering to ensure you are aware of any exclusions or limitations regarding coverage of health benefits. Additionally, keep in mind that short-term plans may have waiting periods, during which certain conditions may not be covered at the beginning of the plan.
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Compare plans and prices available to you
When comparing plans and prices for medical insurance in a different state, it's important to consider several factors. Firstly, understand that premiums can vary based on age, zip code, and tobacco use, so the price of coverage in your new area may be different. If you're eligible for premium subsidies, the subsidy amount will be adjusted to match the cost of the benchmark plan in your new location.
If you have existing health insurance, it's crucial to assess how your current plan will fit into your new living situation. Your current plan may have different rules or may not offer the same benefits once you move. For instance, even if your health insurer is well-known and offers plans nationwide, the specific plan you have may not be available in the state you're moving to, and you'll need to re-enroll. Therefore, it's important to analyze your current plan to decide whether to stick with it or explore new options that better suit your new location.
If you're moving to a different state, you'll likely need to start a new application and enroll in a plan in that state. You can use official websites like HealthCare.gov or your new state's website to compare plans and prices available to you. Tools like the eHealth plan finder can also help you browse Medicare plan options in your new location.
When comparing plans, consider factors beyond just the premium price. Look at the deductible, copay, and coinsurance. If you have family coverage and your premium is unaffordable, check if you qualify for subsidies for an ACA marketplace plan. Additionally, if you have pre-existing conditions, be aware that short-term plans may not cover them and could reject your application.
If your income doesn't exceed 138% of the poverty level (or higher if you have children or are pregnant), understanding how each state's Medicaid program works is crucial. Moving to a new state will trigger a special enrollment period as long as you already had coverage before your move.
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Understand how your provider handles out-of-network costs
Understanding how your insurance provider handles out-of-network costs is crucial when transferring medical insurance to another state. Out-of-network costs can quickly add up, and you may be responsible for paying the difference between the billed amount and what your insurance covers. Here's what you need to keep in mind:
Understanding In-Network and Out-of-Network Providers:
In-network providers have a contracted relationship with your insurance company and have agreed to accept a discounted rate for covered services. These discounted rates are pre-negotiated, and in-network providers cannot charge you more than the agreed-upon cost. On the other hand, out-of-network providers do not have a contract with your insurance company and can charge full price for their services, which can be significantly higher.
Know Your Insurance Plan:
Familiarize yourself with the specifics of your insurance plan. Understand what services are covered, both in-network and out-of-network. Each plan has different benefits and limitations, and knowing these details can help you avoid unexpected costs. Contact your insurance provider to clarify any questions you may have about coverage, especially when transferring to another state.
The No Surprises Act:
The No Surprises Act, which went into effect on January 1, 2022, protects consumers from unexpected out-of-network bills for emergency services. This federal law applies to various types of insurance plans, including employer-provided insurance and individual market coverage. It ensures that you won't be charged more than the in-network cost-sharing rate for emergency medical services.
Prior Approval and Appeals:
In certain cases, you may require specialized care that is only available from an out-of-network provider. With prior approval from your insurer, you may be able to receive this care at the in-network rate. If your initial request is denied, you may have the option to start an "external" appeal, sending your case to an independent, outside group for review.
Temporary Coverage and Travel Insurance:
If you are only temporarily visiting another state, your current health plan may still provide some coverage. Contact your insurance provider to understand the service area and what services are covered out of state. For extended travel or international travel, consider purchasing travel insurance or short-term insurance to boost your coverage.
Medicare and Medigap Plans:
If you are enrolled in Original Medicare (Medicare Part A and Part B), you have access to a nationwide provider network. Medicare Advantage plans, however, have more limited provider networks. Medigap plans can supplement your Original Medicare coverage and are usable nationwide, even if you move to a different state.
By understanding how your insurance provider handles out-of-network costs and taking proactive steps to educate yourself about your coverage, you can make more informed healthcare decisions and avoid unexpected financial burdens.
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Check if your employer can find you a new plan
If your employer has transferred you to another state, you will likely stay on their sponsored health insurance plan, providing it has a complete network in your new location. If it doesn't, your employer might find you a new, accommodating plan. This is also the case if you are moving to a new state but staying with the same employer. You should check with your employer to see if your current plan will remain valid in your new state, and if not, whether they can offer you an alternative plan.
If your employer cannot find you a new plan, you will need to start a new application and enroll in a plan in your new state. You can do this by logging into your Marketplace account and selecting the year you want coverage and your new state. If your new state runs its own Marketplace, you will need to use its website to apply. Once you have finished your application, you will be able to compare plans and prices available to you.
It is important to plan ahead to avoid gaps in coverage. If you are waiting for a new plan to start, you could consider enrolling in a short-term health insurance plan that will cover you while you move and settle in. Short-term plans are available in most states and can start as early as the day after you apply. However, they generally don't cover any pre-existing conditions and can reject your application if you have significant pre-existing medical conditions.
When choosing a new plan, you should consider your priorities, such as including your partner or family on the plan, and whether you need to see specific specialists. You should also consider the price, including the deductible and copay or coinsurance. If you are eligible, you may be able to get help paying for healthcare costs through premium subsidies.
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Frequently asked questions
Moving to another state may mean finding new health insurance as some plans may terminate upon moving or may not provide coverage in the new state. Moving to a new state will trigger a special enrollment period as long as you already had coverage before your move.
You will need to start a new Marketplace application and enroll in a plan in your new state. You can do this by logging into your Marketplace account, going to your applications, and selecting the year you want coverage and your new state. If your new state runs its own Marketplace, you’ll use its website to apply.
Price is almost always an important factor when choosing a new plan. But also look at the deductible, copay, and coinsurance. If you have family coverage, check whether the new plan provides partner benefits. If you have children under the age of 26, you can cover them through your healthcare plan under the Affordable Care Act, even if they live in another state.
