Transitioning from a group health insurance to an individual policy is crucial for employees seeking independent coverage. Porting ensures continuity without losing accrued benefits. Here’s how to do it.
Notify the insurer
The policyholder must notify the insurer of his intent to port from a group to an individual plan 45-60 days before the policy expires. He needs to submit a written portability request with details of the existing policy.
Fill the forms
The insurer will provide portability and proposal forms for shifting to the new policy. These forms collect personal details, previous policy information and claims history. The policyholder needs to fill these forms accurately.
Submit documents
The policyholder will need to provide ID and address proof, policy details and medical history. These help the insurer assess risk and ensure continuity of benefits.
Underwriting assessment
The insurer will review the application, including medical history and claims, and may require additional tests. This assessment determines if the individual policy can be issued on similar terms as the group policy.
Issuance of policy
After approval, an individual health policy is issued, maintaining the waiting period continuity from the group plan. The policyholder then pays the premium as specified by the insurer.
Points to note
- The policyholder must review the terms and conditions of the policy.
- It is essential to verify that the benefits from the previous group policy are correctly ported to the new individual policy.
Content courtesy Centre for Investment Education and Learning (CIEL).
Contributions by Girija Gadre, Arti Bhargava and Labdhi Mehta.