Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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1. How Soon Can My Coverage Begin?
2. What Are the Refund Provisions?
3. What are My Payment Options?
4. What if I am Not a USA Citizen?
How Soon Can My Coverage Begin?
Your coverage can begin as early as 12:01 a.m. the next day after the transmission date. However, the applicant can choose a later effective date, but not to exceed 60 days from transmission date.
What Are the Refund Provisions?
Refund provisions vary by State. Typically, you may return a temporary health insurance policy within 10 days of delivery for a premium refund. Application fees (if any) are usually non-refundable.
What are My Payment Options?
If you purchase short-term health insurance on a month-to-month basis (per Buy Smart, Tip #2), then you want flexible payment options.
The "Short-Term Medical (STM)" plan offers flexible payment options.
If you apply on-line by credit card, an application does not have to be mailed.
If you apply online, you may also pay by check, money order, or automatic bank draft. The application does not have to be mailed. However, your initial payment must still be mailed by check or money order (along with a voided check if bank draft is elected). Note your name, address and social security number (as they appear on your temporary insurance application) on your initial payment. Important! Your initial payment must be received by the company within 10 days from the transmission date, or coverage is void. After issue, if you wish, you may contact your temporary plan administrator to change payment method.
What if I am Not a USA Citizen?
Some temporary health insurance plans require USA citizenship. Other temporary plans will cover non-USA citizens who have been living in the USA for at least one or two years, with a Social Security Number, or proof of Alien Registration Receipt Card, Green Card, Visa or other appropriate documentation.
If you've been a USA resident for less than 12 months, see plan for Recent USA Immigrants.
If you are a USA visitor and will depart the USA within 12 months, see Plans for USA Visitors.