The Affordable Care Act states that the maximum waiting period allowed for new hires is 90 days. A few months ago California said that large groups could have a maximum waiting period of 90 days but that small groups were limited to 60 days. However, with the recent passage of SB X 1-2, California will impose a maximum waiting period of 60 days for all groups, regardless of size. This change is set to take place January 1, 2014 regardless of your plan year. Some carriers such as Kaiser are talking about letting an employee come on to the plan on the 61st day of employment. Most carriers, however, will require you to have a waiting period such as 1st of the month following date of hire, or 1st of the month following 30 days.
Things are changing daily! We will continue to update you to ensure that you are informed and in compliance. Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.