Can I change my ACA plan if I move to another state?

What happens to my ACA insurance coverage if I relocate to a different state?

If you relocate to a different state, your current ACA health insurance plan will no longer provide coverage, and you’ll need to apply for a new plan in your new state of residence. Moving to a new state is considered a qualifying life event, which triggers a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), allowing you to enroll in a new plan. Here’s how relocating affects your ACA coverage and what steps you need to take to ensure continuous health insurance.

1. Why Do I Need a New ACA Plan When I Move?

ACA health insurance plans are offered on a state-by-state basis, meaning each state has its own Marketplace with different health insurance options, networks of doctors and hospitals, and pricing. When you move to a different state, your current plan may not be available or valid in your new state, so you’ll need to choose a new plan from the ACA Marketplace in your new location.

2. Qualifying for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

Moving to a new state triggers a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), which allows you to enroll in a new ACA plan outside of the standard Open Enrollment Period. You’ll have 60 days from the date of your move to enroll in a new plan. If you miss this window, you may have to wait until the next Open Enrollment Period to get coverage, unless you experience another qualifying life event.

A. How to Qualify for SEP Due to Relocation

• You must move to a new state or different region that offers different ACA plans.

• If you move within the same state but to a different county where different plans are available, you may still qualify for SEP.

• You need to provide proof of your move, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or mail forwarded to your new address.

3. Steps to Take After Relocating to a New State

When you move to a new state, here’s what you should do to maintain continuous health coverage:

A. Report Your Move to the Marketplace

• Log in to your ACA Marketplace account: Visit healthcare.gov or your state’s Marketplace website.

• Update your address: Go to the “Report a Life Change” section and enter your new address to notify the Marketplace of your move.

• Confirm your eligibility for SEP: The system will confirm that you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period based on your relocation.

B. Cancel Your Old ACA Plan

Once you’ve moved, your old plan will no longer provide coverage in your new state. You should cancel it through the ACA Marketplace to avoid paying unnecessary premiums. Ensure that you select the end date for coverage that aligns with your move to avoid a coverage gap.

C. Choose a New ACA Plan

• Explore your new state’s ACA Marketplace: Look at the plans available in your new state. Coverage options, networks, and premiums may be different from your previous state.

• Compare coverage options: Review the plan tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum) and compare costs, including premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses.

• Check the provider network: Make sure the new plan’s network includes doctors and hospitals in your new area that meet your healthcare needs.

D. Enroll in Your New Plan

• Once you’ve selected a new plan, enroll in it through the Marketplace.

• Ensure that your coverage starts as soon as possible after your old plan ends to avoid a gap in coverage. You can choose the date your new coverage begins, often the first day of the following month after you enroll.

4. Subsidies and Financial Assistance

If you were receiving premium tax credits or cost-sharing reductions in your old state, you’ll need to update your information when you move to see if you still qualify for financial assistance in your new state. The availability and amount of subsidies can vary based on:

• Income changes: Your household income after moving will determine whether you still qualify for subsidies.

• Cost of living: If the cost of health insurance is higher or lower in your new state, your subsidy amount may change.

5. What Happens if You Don’t Report Your Move?

If you move to a new state and don’t report it to the ACA Marketplace:

• Your old plan may not cover services in your new location, meaning you’ll be responsible for all out-of-network costs.

• You could miss out on the Special Enrollment Period, leaving you without coverage until the next Open Enrollment Period.

• Continuing to use your old plan could result in higher costs and limited access to healthcare providers.

6. Temporary Coverage Options

If you need immediate coverage during the transition period, consider short-term health insurance. While short-term plans don’t offer the same comprehensive coverage as ACA plans, they can provide temporary protection until your new plan takes effect. Be aware that short-term plans may not cover essential health benefits, like prescription drugs, maternity care, or mental health services.

Key Takeaways:

• Moving to a new state qualifies you for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), allowing you to sign up for a new ACA health insurance plan in your new state.

• You must enroll in a new plan within 60 days of your move to ensure continuous coverage.

• Your premium tax credits or subsidies may change depending on your new state’s costs and your updated income.

For help enrolling in a new ACA plan after moving or understanding your coverage options, schedule an appointment with a Tsunami Advisor here: Schedule an Appointment.