Open Enrollment Period | Changes to Remember

Posted on September 18, 2018 in Insurance

If you’re familiar with health  insurance like medical, dental and vision, you’ve heard the term open enrollment before. But do you know why it exists and what it means?

What is open enrollment?

An open enrollment period is a window of time when you can change your insurance benefits. This means you can buy insurance, make changes to your existing policy, or cancel coverage for the next  year.

Why does open enrollment exist?

Open enrollment provides a window of time when you can add, change, or cancel coverage for the next 12-month period.  

It is important to note that additional opportunities to add or change your coverage are available through qualifying life-events. A few examples of qualifying life events include marriage, births, deaths, or loss of previous coverage (i.e. changing jobs).

When is the open enrollment period?

Open enrollment typically occurs 30 to 60 days prior to the plan start date. This gives your HR department time to process any changes before plans become effective. It is important that you weigh your options. Research your plans and make decisions about what you want for the next year prior to open enrollment. 

Interested in individual dental benefits? Shop our plans here.

Having insurance is the first step, and understanding how to use it is the next:

• Insurance 101: A Visual Guide
• Insurance 102: Learn the Lingo
• Insurance 103: Steps After Treatment