ERISA Update
Q.
Do I have more time to submit an appeal?
A.
Due to the national emergency related to COVID-19, during the time period between March 1, 2020 and until 60 days after the announced end of the national emergency, you have additional time beyond the usual 30-day (or 60-day, in certain circumstances) time period to file an appeal with Horizon BCBSNJ. This applies to you only if you’re covered under a group health plan subject to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA).
If you’re enrolled in a self-insured plan, please check with your employer or plan documents for information on how this applies to you.
Q.
Do I have more time to submit a claim?
A.
Due to the national emergency related to COVID-19, during the time period between March 1, 2020 and until 60 days after the announced end of the national emergency, you have additional time to file a claim with Horizon BCBSNJ. This applies to you only if you’re covered under a group health plan subject to ERISA. If you’re enrolled in a self-insured plan, please check with your employer or plan documents for information on how this applies to you.
Q.
What is the time frame for a special enrollment period if health insurance coverage is lost?
A.
Due to the national emergency related to COVID-19, between March 1, 2020 and until 60 days after the announced end of the national emergency, you have additional time to request a special enrollment if you’re covered under a group health plan subject to ERISA. This means that during this time period, you may elect to enroll under the group’s health plan beyond the 30- or 60-day time period usually allowed. Horizon BCBSNJ will retroactively enroll members as needed.
If you’re enrolled in a self-insured plan, please check with your employer or plan documents for information on how this applies to you.
Q.
What is the time frame to elect COBRA continuation coverage?
A.
Due to the national emergency related to COVID-19, if you are an employee of an affected group health plan and you experience a loss in coverage, you may elect COBRA coverage past the usual 60-day limit during the time period between March 1, 2020 and until 60 days after the announced end of the national emergency. Horizon BCBSNJ will retroactively enroll those individuals as needed. This applies to you only if you’re covered under a group health plan subject to ERISA. If you’re enrolled in a self-insured plan, please check with your employer or plan documents for information on how this applies to you.
