When am I eligible for conversion coverage?

· If you were covered under a fully insured group health plan and leave it, you may be able to buy a conversion policy. This is an individual health policy from the insurance company that covered your former group. You can buy a conversion policy if you lost your group coverage because you left your job or because the group coverage was terminated. However, you must have been covered under your fully insured group health plan for at least 3 months, and you must apply for a conversion policy within 45 days after your group coverage was terminated.

· You can buy a conversion policy either instead of or after you use up your COBRA or state continuation coverage. You cannot buy a conversion policy if you have comparable coverage under another group or individual health policy.

What will my conversion policy cover?

· Conversion policies are required to meet minimum standards set out in state regulations. Even so, the benefits may be less generous than what you received under your former group coverage.

What about coverage for my pre-existing condition?

· Your conversion policy cannot impose a new pre-existing condition exclusion period. However, you might have to satisfy the unexpired portion of any pre-existing condition exclusion period from your former health plan.

What can I be charged for my conversion policy?

· Premiums for conversion health plans can vary depending on your class of risk, age, and the amount of coverage you purchase. Contact the New York Department of Insurance if you have questions about conversion policy premiums.

How long does my conversion policy last?

· Your policy cannot be canceled because you get sick. This is called guaranteed renewability. You have this protection provided that you pay the premiums, do not defraud the company, and, in the case of managed care plans, continue to live in the plan service area.