This video defines a “qualifying life event” (QLE) and explains its significance in the context of enrolling in employer insurance plans:
- A qualifying life event (QLE) is a significant life change that allows you to enroll in your employer’s insurance plans outside of the regular yearly open enrollment period.
- Common examples of QLEs include marriage, divorce, the birth of a baby, job loss, turning 26, turning 65, and more.
- The video provides a practical example: Suppose your company’s open enrollment period is in January each year, but it’s currently June, and you’ve just gotten married. Getting married is a qualifying life event, so even though it’s outside the open enrollment period, you and your spouse can enroll in insurance coverage immediately.
- It’s emphasized that when you experience a qualifying event, any changes you wish to make must be completed within a specific timeframe, typically 30 to 60 days after the qualifying event occurs. Missing this window can affect your ability to make insurance-related changes.
