I got new job but health ins. coverage will start in 3 months. How about 63 days gap-will it be applied to me?

Question

I had health ins. till Apr.30'2008 and started to work on 5/19/08 - it's less then 63 days. But will insurance count this period or actual gap in coverage (3 weeks + 3 months) for pre-existing condition?

Answer 1

It's the actual gap.  Better sign up for the Cobra.

Answer 2

No, it does not. According to the gov't regs,  USC 1181(c)(2)(b)  the waiting period an employer imposes before they allow health insurance, does not count towards your 63 day gap in coverage. However, thats still three months you'd not have any health coverage.. it's up to you if you want to take that risk.

Answer 3

If you have a 90 day waiting period, that exceeds the 63 day limit and means the new carrier can apply a pre-existing clause to your coverage.  I would suggest you pay COBRA for at least 2 months and that way you will not exceed the 63 day limit.

Answer 4

You need to ask your new employer if the group coverage even has a pre-existing clause in it. They may not-especially if they are offering an HMO.

But, I woud be more worried about not having coverage until the new coverage kicks in. Better go with the COBRA.