Limits on Waiting Periods

The waiting – or probationary – period is the period of time set by an employer before coverage becomes effective for a new employee enrolling into the group's health benefit coverage.

Group health plans and health insurance carriers that offer group coverage may not apply a probationary period that exceeds 90 days.

The probationary period provision applies to grandfathered and nongrandfathered plans, and to fully insured and self-insured/ASO groups.