COVID-19 Exchange Special Enrollment Period

On January 29, 2021, Commissioner Caride released Bulletin No. 21-03, providing a special enrollment period (SEP) on the state exchange as a part of New Jersey’s ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The SEP will be in effect from February 1, 2021, through May 15, 2021. Individuals may only elect coverage through the state exchange (Get Covered New Jersey) during open enrollment or special enrollment periods.

During this SEP, individuals who are not already enrolled in an individual health benefits plan can apply for coverage through the exchange or directly through carriers. The SEP will also allow individuals who are already enrolled in a health benefits plan to replace their coverage with coverage on the exchange. The coverage will be effective no later than the first of the next month after an individual’s enrollment.

Although this change affects the individual market, employers should keep this in mind as it would likely create a qualifying event that would allow for an employee to potentially drop employer coverage (for themselves or their dependents) to go on the New Jersey exchange.

Bulletin No. 21-03 »