Which statement about the timeline for starting Group Health coverage is accurate?

• A. Coverage must start within 60 days of employment
• B. Coverage must start within 30 days of employment
• C. Coverage must start on the employment date
• D. Coverage must start no later than 90 days after employment date

Answer: (D)

Waiting periods for group health coverage indicate when a newly eligible employee becomes covered after hire. The key rule is that the maximum waiting period allowed before coverage must begin is 90 days from the employment date. This means an employee should have coverage start no later than the end of the 90-day period, giving employers a reasonable onboarding window while protecting employees from being left uninsured for too long. Coverage can begin earlier if the plan’s terms allow, but it cannot be delayed beyond 90 days.