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Since the new health insurance law passed, there are changes coming that will affect nannies as well as everyone else in the country. There are currently several states that have laws already in place that are similar to the new federal law.
In most states there is still short term health insurance which is issued with limited questions. This insurance will not be allowed when the new law is completely in effect. In the meantime, it is a good choice for many nannies and can be very cost effective.
In most states, individual plans are available that require medical questions. A nanny can be offered a plan with higher rates or be turned down. There are high risk pools that nannies can get insured if it turns out they are uninsurable with regular health insurance companies.
A nanny can get health insurance in Massachusetts on a guaranteed issue basis, either individual or group. There are no medical questions and no pre-existing limitations.
New York individual rates are the same if you are 20 or 64 years old and the rates can top $900 per month, unless the nanny can qualify for the Healthy NY plan. Healthy NY coverage is less than half price. We can qualify nannies for Healthy NY regardless of income.
Non US citizens can be eligible for very economical plans depending on their situation. If you are not a citizen, be sure to ask about non US citizen plans.
There still can be changes coming so be sure to keep informed.
Eisenberg Associates has been helping nannies obtain insurance since 1975 and we keep up with all the changes to make sure you get the best information. Don't hesitate to call us or fill out the request for the health insurance quote above.
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When a family decides to hire a nanny, there are other benefits that need to be provided besides salary. Many states require Worker's Compensation and, of course, all Government requirements for employees must be adhered to. Many families wish to provide health insurance as an additional benefit, just as a company might provide health insurance to its employees.
There are two approaches to health insurance: permanent health insurance and temporary health insurance. Permanent insurance can be renewed each year, even if the nanny comes down with a serious medical condition such as diabetes or heart disease. Short term insurance is written for a specific period of time, i.e., six months. If someone develops a medical condition during the policy period, it will be considered pre-existing under future plans.
The cost difference between the two types of insurance plans is remarkable. Typically, the short-term plan costs about half of the permanent insurance premium. The short-term plan can be used for years, as long as their health remains good. The permanent plan is usually used for a nanny that will be staying with a family for years, or will be a career nanny for the foreseeable future and wants the protection only permanent coverage can give. A nanny that gives a one year commitment and plans to stay in child care for a short period of time, i.e., one to two years, would be a good candidate for the short term health insurance. Permanent policies offer more comprehensive benefits, i.e. doctor copays, prescription cards, wellness benefits. Plans can be designed to suit your needs and budget.
