Special Enrollment

Special Enrollment for Group Members Losing Coverage

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) has some options available to help group members who may need coverage support due to COVID-19.

Losing coverage due to job loss is one of many qualifying events that allows individuals a special enrollment period to purchase new coverage. Deadlines and limitations apply as usual. Learn more about special enrollment period qualifying events.

Coverage Options
Employees who will be losing coverage under their employer health plan may have several options for alternative coverage.

• Federal COBRA: Eligible employers with 20 or more employees must offer coverage under federal COBRA. Employees losing coverage due to a qualifying event, which can include job loss or a reduction in hours, may have the opportunity to enroll in COBRA coverage to continue their current group health plan.
• Individual coverage: Anyone can enroll in an individual plan, and some may qualify for financial assistance, depending on their income. View benefit plan options at Selectbcbsil.com.
• Medicaid plans: Eligibility for Medicaid depends on income and other state requirements. View benefit plan options.
• Medicare plans: Employees age 65 or older with employer insurance ending may be able to get the medical coverage they need with a Medicare plan. Some employees may have group Medicare plan options and should check with their employer first before enrolling in an individual plan. Learn more about individual Medicare plan options at bcbsil.com/medicare.

We are here to help our customers and our members during this difficult time. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your account representative with any questions.