Employees enrolled in a health plan under Covered California for Small Business will continue to receive coverage until the plan year’s end as long as they pay their monthly premiums. However, if you are a new employee, you should know a few things about New Hire Enrollment for Covered California for Small Business.
A new hire is eligible for coverage on the first day of the month following the completion of your company’s waiting period. As an employer, you have the flexibility to choose the right waiting period for your business, but it cannot exceed 90 calendar days in total.
Understanding Waiting Period
As an employer, you have the option to choose a waiting period that best suits your business needs. However, it is important to note that the waiting period can be at most 90 calendar days. Since the coverage begins on the first day of each month, you should select a waiting period compliant with this maximum timeframe.
Here are three examples of waiting periods that would be appropriate:
- Employee coverage will be effective from the first day of the month following the hire date.
- Employee coverage will be effective from the first day of the month, following 30 days from the date of hire.
- Employee coverage will be effective from the first day of the month, following 60 days from the date of hire.
Enrolling in a Qualified Health Plan
When you become eligible for health coverage, you have 30 days to sign up for a qualified health plan. The enrollment period starts on the day you become eligible. If you want to change your plan, you can do so until the 15th day of the first coverage month. Changes made during this time will be effective retroactively to the 1st of the month unless you request otherwise. It is important to note that if you want to change your plan during the first 30 days of coverage, you must stick with the same health plan.
How would I Submit my Employee Application?
In order to join your company’s health plan, you must fill out an Employee Application and submit it before the effective date. Please note that the application must be submitted 30 days after you become eligible. You can find the Employee Application at CoveredCA.com/ForSmallBusiness/Resources. You have two options to submit your application:
– Via the MyCCSB Portal: https://myccsb.com
– By email: CCSBeligibility@covered.ca.gov
Takeaway
Understanding the rules and policies surrounding new hire enrollment for Covered California for Small Business is important for employers and employees. It is crucial to remember that as a new employee, you must enroll within 30 days of becoming eligible. As an employer, you have the flexibility to choose a waiting period that suits your business needs. By following these guidelines and submitting your Employee Application promptly, you can ensure that you and your employees have access to quality healthcare coverage when needed. Remember, taking care of your employees’ health is good for them and your business in the long run.
Need Help with Group Health Insurance
Skyline Benefit is an independent health insurance broker in Fullerton, CA that offers affordable and flexible group health insurance options. Selecting the best group health insurance plans can be overwhelming; our mission is to simplify the process and help our clients every step of the way.
Schedule a consultation today. Call us at: (714) 888-5112