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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

  • Includes the month you turn 65

  • 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?

  • Part A is hospital services, skilled nursing(not Long Term Care) and hospice.

  • Part B is doctor visits, durable medical equipment and infused or injected therapies in a office setting.

  • Part C is a contract between Medicare & an insurance carrier that combines A, B, integrates D.

  • 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:

  • Composite age of the group

  • Deductibles

  • Whether you choose a PPO or an HMO

  • 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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