Moving can be a challenging and exciting proposition. One very important aspect is knowing what health insurance options you’ll have when moving to another state. It is something that absolutely should not be overlooked in your planning.

Luckily, a shift in residence counts as a qualifying life event under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). That means you can enroll in a new plan within 60 days, under “special enrollment” without having to wait for an annual open enrollment period (as long as you had coverage prior to the event). In the case of exchange plans, you may be able to take advantage of special enrollment in the new plan before you move. Otherwise, be aware that you may have a gap in coverage of at least one month.

An option for anyone facing a gap in coverage is what’s called short-term insurance. It can provide a bridge between traditional plans for protection in the interim. However, be aware that short-term insurance may have higher costs and/or fewer benefits than your current plan. Additionally, these plans also don’t come under the ACA umbrella and can result in a tax penalty if maintained for more than two months.

Let’s a take a look at some options for health insurance when moving to another state.

Coverage Through an Employer

If you will be working for the same employer that provides your current insurance, most likely the plan and coverage will remain the same. However, one thing to remember is to check whether a local physician you’re considering and/or preferred area hospital are in the “network” under that policy.

Coverage Under Private Insurance

If you currently have a private individual plan, you may find that your carrier offers coverage in the new state, perhaps with some minor differences in the details. If not, they may be able suggest an alternative. So, ask ahead of time to be fully prepared. An independent insurance broker can also serve as an advisor to help you find a new plan that fits your needs.

Coverage Through an ACA Exchange

You probably won’t be able to carry a healthcare insurance exchange or marketplace plan to your new state. In addition, any tax credits you are receiving are likely to be different where you’re headed, especially if your income level is expected to change. Also, make sure to alert your current exchange-based provider so you don’t pay for coverage after you’ve moved. You simply need to research the available plans, which you can certainly start doing before you move.

Coverage Under Medicare/Medicaid

If you are insured under traditional Medicare (part A, B or D), no problem. This is a federal program that’s the same regardless of where you live. However, if you have a Medicare Advantage plan (part C) through a private company, you will need to arrange for a new plan. You may find that your out-of-pocket costs are different, since the costs for medical services and products in the area differ from where you used to live. And you need to find a local doctor who takes Medicare patients.

If you are insured under Medicaid (or Medi-Cal in California,), you will need to enroll in the new state’s Medicaid program. These programs are partially funded and managed by state governments, so each has its own requirements and coverages. That includes the income eligibility level, depending on whether the state elected to raise it under the ACA. Although the application process may take up to 90 days, your coverage will be retroactive from when you applied.

Other Considerations When Moving

Moving also entails finding a whole new set of related services in your local area. So add those to your list!

• Pharmacies
• Urgent-care clinics
• Primary care physicians
• Pediatricians
• Specialists
• Hospitals

Finding these new local resources, as well as a referral to a trusted insurance agent or broker, can often come from neighbors and new co-workers. Find out if an associate, friend or relative has access to an insurance expert that they already know and trust and who could assist you. Don’t hesitate to tap your new network after, and especially before, you move into your new place.

And plan ahead!