During open enrollment, when should clients make their binder payments at the earliest possible date?

Clients should make their binder payments starting on January 1. This date is significant because it marks the beginning of the new coverage year for health plans in the Federally-facilitated Marketplace (FFM). The binder payment is essentially the first premium payment required to secure health insurance coverage, and making it on January 1 ensures that coverage begins as intended and clients do not have a lapse in insurance.

Prior to January 1, no payment can be processed for the new year’s coverage; thus, clients need to be aware that the earliest they can formalize their insurance by making this essential payment is right at the start of the new year. This timing is crucial for clients to ensure their marketplace coverage takes effect without any delays.