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If you're wondering how to apply for health insurance, be aware that application is the second step of the process. First you need
to research different policies and compare prices and benefits. Whether you apply online or off will depend on your comfort level
with the computer, and also whether you're applying via a group plan.
Before you sit down to fill out an application, you will need to gather information about your most recent insurance policy, the
names and addresses of your (and your family's) doctors, and the dates of the most recent visits, because you may need this
information when filling out your application.
Through Your Employer
If you're enrolling in a health insurance plan provided by your employer, you probably won't need a medical examination, but you
may have to wait for the company's open enrollment period before you can apply. However, if you're a new hire you may be able to
apply right away. The application process for enrolling in a group plan is quite simple, because most plans will enroll everybody,
regardless of pre-existing conditions and current state of health.
You'll fill out an enrollment form, which requires personal information including: address, social security number, designation of
the primary insured and all dependents (including the names, ages, dates of birth and social security numbers for all dependents),
employment information including date of hire, and the type of health insurance coverage you select. You'll most likely have to
provide information about your prior health insurance coverage, including the insurance company name and policy number.
From there, the completed application goes back to the benefits coordinator who processes your form, and you're finished.
On Your Own
If you're not applying for group coverage, the steps are very similar, except that you'll have to process your own paper work.
Some insurance companies will send an insurance agent to discuss the application process with you. In these cases, the agent will
typically work with you to gather all required documentation, coordinate the in-home medical examination, and collect pre-payment.
Again, once you've made sense out of the different policies and what each does and does not cover, the application process is fairly
straightforward.
It's so simple that some people opt to apply for health insurance online. To do so, just visit the health insurance company's web
site where you'll find an online application form and a secure environment. You'll be required to provide the same type of personal
and employment information as above, and you'll just enter all of it onto an online application form. When you're finished, click the
submit button and the system takes over.
Applying for health insurance online really is painless, reliable and fast. However, if you are not comfortable providing that
amount of personal information over the Internet, it's probably a good idea to apply for health insurance offline.
Either way, get it before you need it. Because then it might be too late.
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