It is not unusual for health insurance ID cards to arrive after the 1st of the month when the policy begins or after January 1st at the start of a new plan year.
It's important to remember that just because your ID cards may not have physically arrived, this does not necessarily mean you are without health insurance coverage.
What should you do in the mean time?
Some insurance companies include member ID and group number in emails or welcome letters and you can use these with your healthcare provider until you receive a card.
In some cases, you may be able to create an account on your insurance company's website and download or print out a temporary card.
Some health insurance companies have an app you can open on your mobile device and use to access a digital ID card
If you have to see your healthcare provider, tell them your insurance company and plan name and effective date and ask if they will wait to submit claims to your insurance company after you receive your card.
If you have to see a provider or refill a prescription before you receive your card, you can always pay out-of-pocket and submit your claim to your insurance company for reimbursement after you receive a card.
Refill any prescriptions before the new year if you are eligible for a refill
If you need emergency care, go to the hospital! Hospitals have to treat you if you need emergency medical care and work out payment and insurance later
If you need to call your insurance company, use their individual insurance phone number (or mention that you enrolled in an individual plan) so you are directed to the correct support team.
Remember to look up & use providers that are in-network with your insurance company to take advantage of in-network benefits and pricing.