Becoming newly eligible for a QSEHRA generally creates a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) that allows you to enroll in individual health insurance outside Open Enrollment.
Why does a QSEHRA create a Special Enrollment Period?
Federal enrollment rules provide a Special Enrollment Period when an employee becomes newly eligible for a QSEHRA.
You typically have 60 days from your QSEHRA eligibility date to enroll in or change a qualifying individual health insurance plan. If you miss this window, you generally must wait until the next Open Enrollment period.
What can I do during the Special Enrollment Period?
You may:
Enroll in a new individual health insurance plan
Change qualifying individual coverage
Obtain coverage needed for QSEHRA reimbursement eligibility
Do I need documentation?
Yes. You may be required to provide documentation showing your QSEHRA eligibility. This typically includes your employer's QSEHRA eligibility notice or other documentation showing your HRA start date and benefit amount.
What happens if I miss the enrollment window?
You may need to wait until the next Open Enrollment Period unless another qualifying life event occurs. Contact Customer Experience promptly if you are approaching or have just passed the 60-day window — in some cases, extenuating circumstances may allow an exception.