The time of year when we renew or change our health insurance is here once again. It is officially open enrollment for Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association Members health insurance if you have an individual plan. That means it’s time to sign up if you haven’t already done so or evaluate and make changes and renew if you are a current individual enrollee. Of course, some things have changed. Some members may have been previously notified that their current plan is no longer offered. Many carriers have made changes to current plans or are dropping out of certain markets. This makes it that much more critical that you take the time to review your options and to sign up before time runs out.
OCA Open Enrollment and Making Changes
The timeline for open enrollment has changed for this year. There is less time to make your choices and sign up for an individual plan. Open enrollment is open now (started November 1, 2017) and closes January 31, 2018. Keep in mind, however; your enrollment must be completed by December 15, 2017, for it to be effective January 1, 2018. To get started, call AIS to compare plans, get a quote and enroll. Remember that all individuals are required to carry health insurance. A monetary penalty, not yet disclosed, will be placed on those without coverage.
Another important thing to keep in mind is that changes to your individual policy can only be made during open enrollment, with a few exceptions. Some examples of events that qualify for later date changes are a birth of a child, adoption of a child, marriage, divorce, death, child turns 26, if you move or if your dependents have other coverage and lose that coverage. If any of these has happened to you, changes to your plan can be made within 30 days of the event.
AIS can help during Open Enrollment
Should you have a question during open enrollment about your current plan or about selecting a new plan, AIS is here to help. We know the OCA membership benefits back and forth and can help with your specific needs. In addition, we can help with group insurance plans. We can create a custom benefits package for groups with 2 or more members. Give AIS a call at (913) 397-9400 this open enrollment season and don’t wait until the last minute. Give yourself time to look over the current options and reach out with any questions. We are happy to help.
Individual Plan Open Enrollment Important Dates:
Open Enrollment: November 1, 2017 – January 31, 2018
Last day to enroll for benefits to be effective January 1, 2018 – December 15, 2017
Last day to enroll or make changes to your 2018 health plan – January 31, 2018