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Waiting Periods

A waiting period is the time a new hire must wait before coverage begins. The ACA caps it at 90 days, and the employer sets the length within that limit.

What is a waiting period for new employees, and how long can it be?

June 29, 2026June 16, 2026 by HealthInsuranceFAQs

A waiting period is the time a newly eligible employee must wait before health coverage begins. Under the ACA, a group health plan’s waiting period cannot exceed 90 days, so many employers use “first of the month following 30 days” to stay safely compliant.

Categories Enrollment & Eligibility Tags Waiting Periods

Health Insurance FAQs is researched carefully and believed to be accurate and current, but it is general information, not legal, tax, or insurance advice.

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