Accident Insurance is a valuable financial resource if a covered accident takes you (and your budget) by surprise.

No one plans to be injured in an accident – they always happen without warning. You can, however, be prepared for the unexpected expenses associated with an accident by enrolling in Accident Insurance. Once you’re enrolled, you’ll be better prepared with an added cushion of financial security that’s specifically designed to help take the sting from your accident-related bills. 

• Pays a benefit directly to you to use however you want
• The payment is made directly to you
• It can help pay out-of-pocket expenses related to medical care associated with covered accidents
• In addition to medical care, you may use it to pay for things like childcare, lodging, or over-the-counter medication

You can collect this benefit in addition to other coverage you have, including your employer’s major medical plan, any other type of medical coverage, disability insurance, or other benefits you may be eligible to collect. However, it is NOT health insurance and does not satisfy the requirement of minimum essential coverage under the Affordable Care Act.

Healing from an accidental injury can be costly to your budget in 2 ways:

• Bills. Accidents may have unexpected out-of-pocket costs that take you by surprise. The list includes deductibles, copays, and any expenses that aren’t covered at all. All of these can put a serious dent in your savings.  
• Lost wages. Your accident recovery could mean taking time out of work – either a little or a lot, depending on your needs. Or a family member might need to take time off to drive you to medical appointments or assist you in other ways. Either could impact the paycheck your family may rely on to keep everything on track. No one wants to struggle to pay regular bills with a reduced income while on the mend.

You may use your Accident Insurance payment any way you choose. It’s 100% your call how to spend the money you receive, without limitations or approvals from your major medical insurance. You can use it to help pay for medical expenses or non-medical expenses – anything that becomes a financial concern if you lose income while you’re out of work.

Access to this insurance can help you financially while you recover from your accident. Having less financial worry can mean a more positive mindset for focusing on your recovery.

These are the periods when you are eligible to enroll for Accident Insurance:

• Within your new hire enrollment period 
• If you have a qualifying life event (you get married, have a baby, etc.)
• During your employer’s annual enrollment 

Check with your employer’s human resources/benefits team for specifics about these timeframes.

Keep in mind: If you enroll during these timeframes, you have what is called "guaranteed issue," which means no medical questions or tests are required to enroll.