Just grad college, moving to another state. What are my legal responsibilities when moving? Health insurance?

Question

Just grad college, moving to another state. What are my legal responsibilities when moving? Health insurance?

Answer 1

Legal responsibilities with regard to health insurance?  Well, you may not be *required* to do anything, but you’ll want to check with your health insurance company to be sure that your current plan will still meet your needs in a new state.  Some health plans may not cover your claims in a different state.  Others may only pay your claims at a lower level.  Health insurance is regulated on a state by state basis so the nature of your coverage and what’s available to you can be quite different in different areas.

You should also notify your insurance company within 30 days to find out if your current plan coverage will be extended to the state you are moving to. Most contracts/policies require a notification in case the member moves their place of residence and this not only pertains to moving out-of-state, but also within the same state. The reason for this is health insurance premiums are based on your zip code. So the monthly premium may change as well.

If you’re going to be a new state for any length of time you may want to take a look at other options available to you through your employer or through purchasing an individual or family plan on your own.  Depending on where you live, your age, and your current health status, you may be able to find affordable options.

To find out about the individual health insurance options available in your new state, talk to a licensed agent or visit eHealthInsurance.com (where I work) to get some free quotes, compare plans, and apply for coverage online.  You can talk with one of our licensed agents at 1-800-977-8860.

Good luck!

Amir M, licensed agent

Answer 2

Legal responsibilities?  You need to obtain a new drivers license for your new state.  You need to notify any insurers and creditors of your new address.

Answer 3

Unless you're moving to MA, you're not legally required to have health insurance.