How to Add a Spouse to Health Insurance

Many married couples save cash by selecting a joint health insurance plan instead of each paying for single coverage. While adding a spouse to most insurance plans is quite simple, it is vital that you act quickly to make this change. Gather necessary documentation to ensure that the process goes smoothly so that your spouse is never in the risky position of being without health insurance coverage.

Instructions

• 1

  Add your spouse as soon as the wedding occurs. Many insurance companies allow a limited window of time for spouse enrollment. This window opens when the spouse loses his or her current insurance coverage due to job loss or the marriage takes place, and closes at a set time. To avoid missing out on this insurance enrollment opportunity, begin the enrollment process as soon as possible.

• 2

  Obtain the necessary paperwork from your employer or health insurance provider. If you are insured through an employer, speak to the Human Resources department or your company's insurance administrator and request the paperwork necessary for new enrollment. If you are privately insured, request this paperwork directly from the provider.

• 3

  Complete the paperwork carefully. Paperwork errors can result in coverage denial. To avoid this, ask for help if you run in to any problems while completing the documents.

• 4

  Return the paperwork, along with substantiating documents, to the insurance company or your company's health insurance administrator. If you are adding your spouse because you are newly married, you will likely need a copy of your marriage license. If your spouse lost his job and no longer has health insurance coverage, you will probably need a copy of his dismissal notice or a letter from the employer stating that he was let go and no longer has health insurance coverage.