I recently got fired from my job and they told me I would have 30 days after my last day, May 14th. Blue Cross says I only get until May 30th. BC sent me a letter offering COBRA, but at 381.70 a month!!!! So I called and asked if I could switch plans to an individual plan for less money and they said no. They said the reason is I am seeing a psychiatrist currently. Is it legal for them to not let me get on another plan even though I was a current member?
2007-06-01 21:29:56 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Business & Finance ➔ Insurance
That's why you need to stay on a group health policy as long as you have a significant health history. My wife's medications would normally cost over $800 a month plus an annual MRI at $10000 a pop. Her job's value goes way beyond her salary.
You are best advised to take the COBRA offer until you get on your next group policy. If you have a spouse or your partner works at a company that recognizes domestic partners, you may be able to get on his or her group plan because you just had a "significant change in coverage." Otherwise, good luck on the job hunt.
2007-06-02 00:50:38 · answer #1 · answered by aaron p 5 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Wow, usually it's either the day AFTER you get fired, or the last day of the MONTH when you get fired. I think whoever "they" is that told you you'd have company insurance until June 14th, was wrong.
Cobra DOESN'T give you an option of "switching plans". If you want an individual BCBS plan, go apply for it. They do NOT switch you around, guaranteed acceptance. You can ONLY get EXACTLY the coverage you had under your employer's plan.
It's not illegal, and it's standard practice. NO ONE does this. It's not just BCBS.
2007-06-02 02:24:31 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous 7 · 2⤊ 1⤋
Hate to break it to you, but yes, this is legal. When you leave a job and accept COBRA, it's the same plan you had when you were employed - the only difference is how much and who you pay the premiums to.
2007-06-02 11:13:07 · answer #3 · answered by zippythejessi 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
BC / BS is correct...
They made you a COBRA offer, you can take it or leave it, otherwise if you attempt to get coverage on your own, it will be medically underwritten to determine rate as well as eligibility.
Nothing illegal is going on, the insurance company is doing everything within their rights.
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2007-06-01 23:36:36 · answer #4 · answered by DuSteDShaDoW 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋