Written by: Vanessa Jerusalimiec (*Amsive Digital)  |  Reviewed by: Shelley Wyant  |  *MHP partners with Amsive Digital on news content

How Moving to a New State Impacts Health Insurance

Moving out of state is a major life event. You might be moving to start a new job or be closer to family. As you pack up your home, look for a new house, or find a new school for the kids, your health insurance might be the last thing on your mind. But if you move to a new state, you’ll probably need to enroll in a new health insurance plan.

Moving to a New State: Health Insurance

If your company is transferring you to a new location, you may be able to keep your current healthcare coverage. However, most plans only offer coverage in a particular state or county. If you access healthcare in another state, you’ll pay out-of-network rates. You will likely have high out-of-pocket costs and high coinsurance or copays.

Does Moving Out of State Require a Switch in Health Insurance Plans?

When moving to a new state, switching health insurance plans is usually the best option. You’ll get in-network coverage in your new city, and you won’t be stuck paying for out-of-network care.

Moving Is a Qualifying Life Event

The good news is that moving out of state is a qualifying life event. Whether you move to a new ZIP code or a new state where your plan doesn’t offer coverage, you can change your healthcare plan. Moving qualifies you for a Special Enrollment Period so you can sign up for new health insurance.

If you have job-based health insurance coverage, you will have 30 days to make changes to your coverage. This could include enrolling in your employer's healthcare plan or finding an individual plan. If you have a Marketplace plan, you may have up to 60 days to enroll in your new plan.

Will Moving Out of State Impact Health Insurance Cost and Coverage?

Moving to a new state can change your healthcare costs. In your new state, you’ll have access to different health insurance plans with different benefits, premiums, deductibles, and costs. You will need to set aside some time to research the plans available in your area. Compare cost and coverage options to choose the best plan for your and your family.

How to Change Health Insurance When Moving Out of State

If you’re enrolled in a Marketplace plan, the first step is to report your move using your HealthCare.gov account. By reporting a life change, you’ll be able to access healthcare coverage options in your new state. You’ll also avoid paying for coverage that you can’t access in your new state.

Next, research your coverage options, review plan costs, and choose the plan that best matches your healthcare needs. Finally, you can apply for a new healthcare plan.

When Will Coverage Start?

As long as you enroll in your new plan during your Special Enrollment Period, you can avoid a coverage gap. Your plan will apply retroactively. This means that if you accessed healthcare after your move but before you finished your enrollment, your new plan will cover your healthcare costs.

Are You Eligible for Medicaid?

Remember that moving to a new state might change your Medicaid eligibility. Some states have expanded Medicaid programs, so you may qualify for additional services or benefits. However, depending on your new home state, you might lose your Medicaid eligibility.

Find The Perfect Health Insurance Plan

When you’re prepping to move out of state, there’s a lot to keep in mind. But don’t overlook your healthcare coverage. Be sure to research plans in your new ZIP code and enroll in a new plan as soon as possible to avoid any gaps in coverage.