How to Transfer Health Care Plans If I Move to Another State

If you always go where the job takes you or you fell in love with someone on a different coast, you may need to know what it takes to move your current health care coverage to a new home. Given the legalities of our current health care system, there are very few ways you can take your health plan with you. If you have work-provided health care or Medicare, you should be able to take at least part of your coverage with you.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet connection
• Financial statements

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Instructions

• 1

  Ask your employer if your transfer will impact your health care coverage. In most cases, even major firms with a variety of offices must purchase health care coverage for employees within that state. You can transfer your coverage if insured under a plan written through the home office that gives coverage to all employees, regardless of location, so ask human resources if this exception prevails.

• 2

  Expect your Medicare Parts A and B health benefits to transfer with you if you’re older than 65, as this program, administered by states, is regulated and run by the federal government. Apply for SHIP--State Health Insurance Assistance Program benefits--if the move from your former home reduces your income to such a degree that you warrant an additional monthly stipend.

• 3

  Shop for new Medicare Part D (drug coverage) when you relocate since only your Part A and Part B Medicare can legally move with you from state to state. Find a new carrier for any Medicare gap coverage you may also have purchased as soon as you get settled.