Moving Out of State? What to Do About Your Health Insurance

Overview

If you’re moving to a new state, your health insurance situation will almost always change. That’s because most health insurance plans—whether through your employer or purchased on your own—are state-specific. Networks, plan options, and premiums vary based on where you live.

Unless you’re staying with the same employer and keeping your current plan, you’ll likely need to choose new coverage. Even if your employer offers national coverage, it’s worth confirming that your network and providers will still be available in your new location.

If You’re Starting a New Job or Changing Employment

If you’re joining a new company or switching jobs, you’ll typically need to enroll in a new employer-sponsored health plan. Some employers require a waiting period—often up to 90 days—before benefits begin.

If you’re self-employed, between jobs, or working part-time, you’ll need to shop for an ACA marketplace plan through:

• The federal Health Insurance Marketplace at HealthCare.gov, or

• Your new state’s exchange, if it operates its own marketplace (such as California, New York, or Washington).

If you’re temporarily without coverage during your move or job transition, consider a short-term health plan to bridge the gap.

COBRA Coverage: An Option, but an Expensive One

If you’re leaving an employer that offered health benefits, you can opt for COBRA continuation coverage, which lets you stay on your former plan for up to 18 months (and in some cases longer). However, COBRA can be costly—you’ll pay your full premium plus a 2% administrative fee.

It’s a good safety net if you’re mid-treatment or want to keep your current providers briefly, but it’s not a long-term solution—especially across state lines, where your provider network may not extend.

Short-Term Health Insurance: Temporary Coverage While You Move

Short-term health insurance can cover you during your transition period after moving to a new state. These plans are sold by private insurers (not through the ACA marketplace) and are designed to provide temporary coverage in case of unexpected illness or injury.

Here’s what to know for 2025:

• Duration: Most short-term medical plans can last under one year, but some states allow renewals for up to three years total. Other states have stricter limits—some cap plans at 3 or 6 months, or prohibit them altogether.

• Coverage scope: These plans don’t include essential health benefits required by the Affordable Care Act (such as maternity care, mental health, or preventive services). They are meant for emergencies and major medical needs, not routine or ongoing care.

• Underwriting: Insurers can deny coverage or exclude preexisting conditions based on your health history.

• Enrollment speed: You can apply online and often get coverage as soon as the next day, making these plans helpful for short-term gaps during relocation or job changes.

While short-term health plans can offer peace of mind during a move, they are not a substitute for ACA-compliant coverage. Use them only as a temporary bridge until you enroll in a long-term health plan through your new employer or your state’s marketplace.

Moving Triggers a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

A permanent move to a new state is considered a qualifying life event under the Affordable Care Act. That means you get a 60-day Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to enroll in a new ACA-compliant plan outside of Open Enrollment.

You can apply:

• On HealthCare.gov, if your new state uses the federal marketplace, or

• Through your state exchange (e.g., Covered California, NY State of Health, etc.).

Tip: You must have had qualifying health coverage in your previous location to be eligible for the SEP due to a move.

If You Live in Another State Only Part of the Year

If you split your time between states—like “snowbirds,” “sunbirds,” or remote contractors—it’s best to get coverage in the state where you legally reside (your primary address for tax and voting purposes).

Look for plans with nationwide provider networks (often PPOs) or check whether your plan offers telehealth and out-of-state emergency benefits. These can help you access care no matter where you spend time during the year.

If Your Kids Are in College in Another State

Under the ACA, children can remain on a parent’s plan until age 26, even if they live in another state or are married.

Check whether your plan has in-network doctors near their school. If not, your child can:

• Stay on your plan for major medical protection, and

• Use their college’s student health plan or campus clinic for everyday care.

If You Have Employer Coverage and Are Relocating

If your move is job-related and you’ll stay with the same employer, what happens next depends on your plan type:

• HMO plans: You’ll likely need to choose a new plan that includes providers in your new area.

• PPO or POS plans: These usually have broader networks and may still cover you, though your provider list might change.

Always notify your HR department of your move. Even if you don’t need to switch plans, your new ZIP code could affect your premiums, provider network, or local benefits.

The Bottom Line

Moving to a new state is a big life change—and your health insurance should move with you. Whether you’re starting a new job, retiring, studying, or freelancing, make sure you:

1. Review your current coverage.

2. Understand your options for temporary or long-term insurance.

3. Enroll within your 60-day Special Enrollment Period to avoid gaps in coverage.

Taking a little time to plan before your move can help you avoid unexpected medical bills and ensure you have continuous protection wherever you go.