Getting Health Insurance through Your Employer
Many employers provide health insurance to employees and their families. In fact, this is the most common way people get coverage, and it may be a more convenient and affordable option for families.
In this article:
What is employer-based health (or group health) insurance?
Employer-based health insurance (also known as group health insurance) is a type of health coverage a company may offer to the people who work there.
When employers provide health coverage, they may:
- Offer insurance coverage to eligible employees.
- Pay part of the employee’s monthly premium.
- Cover the employee’s dependents or family members, depending on the plan.
Enrolling in a health insurance plan through your employer may be a great option. Although you will likely still have to pay a monthly premium, it is usually more affordable than purchasing an individual plan.
How do I sign up for employer-based health insurance?
When applying for or starting a new job, ask the employer about your benefits to see if you can get health insurance coverage for you and your family through them. Once you begin your employment, it may be a month or more before your coverage begins (also known as a probationary period).
If you can receive health insurance through your employer, you will have to sign up again each year during the company’s open enrollment period or following a life event (including child birth, marriage and more).
What other options are there for health insurance?
If you are not eligible to get health insurance through an employer, there are other options available. Learn more about the different ways to get health insurance in Georgia.
Download a printable version of the 3 ways to get health insurance in Georgia.
