Your health coverage always starts on the 1st of the month following your enrollment. For example, if your employer completed open enrollment in March, your coverage effective date is April 1st.
New hire? Here's how waiting periods work.
If you're a new employee, your employer sets a waiting period that determines when you become eligible to enroll in benefits. There are three options employers can choose from:
1st of the month after your hire date
1st of the month after 30 days
1st of the month after 60 days
Once your waiting period ends, you'll be invited to enroll. After you complete enrollment, your coverage becomes active on the 1st of the following month. Not sure which waiting period applies to you? Check with your manager or HR contact.
What if my ID card hasn't arrived yet?
Don't stress — your benefits are active as of your effective date, even if your physical ID card is still on its way. ID cards can take up to 10 business days to arrive after your coverage begins, so it's completely normal if yours hasn't shown up yet. Here's what to do in the meantime:
Confirm your provider is in-network using the provider lookup tool in your OSB Dashboard or the HealthWallet app, and call their office directly to verify.
Let your provider know that your coverage is active as of your effective date and that your ID card details are on the way. Most providers are familiar with this situation and are typically accommodating.
Do not pay out of pocket — claims must be submitted by your provider for payment. Reimbursement directly to members is not available, so do not pay upfront for services. Your provider should submit the claim directly once your coverage is confirmed active.
In the meantime, your wellness benefits are already live — head to your OSB Dashboard to start exploring what's available to you.
Questions about your coverage start date?
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