Group Health Insurance
For small businesses in Washington State
Frequently Asked Questions
Medicare
Group Health
When should I consider applying for a Medicare plan?
You should start the educational the process at least 3 months before you need coverage.
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How old do you have to be to apply for Medicare?
If you're eligible for Medicare when you turn 65, you can sign up during the 7-month period that:
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Begins 3 months before the month you turn 65
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Includes the month you turn 65
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Ends 3 months after the month you turn 65
If you wait until the month you turn 65 (or the 3 months after you turn 65) to enroll, your Part B coverage will be delayed. This could cause a gap in your coverage. If you are under 65 with a disability, you automatically enrolled in Part A and Part B after:
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24 months of Social Security Disability Benefits*
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How long does it take to get a Medicare card?
In general, it can take up to 30 days.
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Can I apply for Medicare for a spouse?
Not unless you are the personal representative of your spouse.
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What are the differences between Part A, Part B, Part C and Part D?
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Part A is hospital services, skilled nursing(not Long Term Care) and hospice.
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Part B is doctor visits, durable medical equipment and infused or injected therapies in a office setting.
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Part C is a contract between Medicare & an insurance carrier that combines A, B, integrates D.
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Part D is a contract between Medicare & an insurance carrier for a prescription drug plan.
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*This information is from medicare.gov and other Special Election Periods may apply
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**5 Star Plans have a year round Special Election Period
At what point should I consider getting health insurance for my employees and I?
Anytime you feel it would be a good option for your employees and your business.
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How much does small business health insurance typically cost?
Factors that go into the cost of premiums are:
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Composite age of the group
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Deductibles
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Whether you choose a PPO or an HMO
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Whether you are including dental and vision
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Which Insurance Companies offer group health insurance?
Some companies that offer group health insurance are but not limited to: National General, Premera, Regence, Kaiser, United HealthCare, Aetna.
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How long does it take to get a group health plan for a small business?
It varies by the carrier and size of the group but it can be as little as 2 days if the business is organized. This can be all done online and over the phone.
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I've looked at health insurance before is anything different?
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Yes! There are great semi-self-funded plans that have the possible of receiving returning of premium!
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