A waiver, or declination, documents that an eligible employee has turned down coverage, usually because of other qualifying coverage. Waivers support participation requirements and create a record that the offer was made.
No. Employees who waive because they have other valid coverage are removed from the participation math, which makes it easier to hit the carrier’s threshold.
An employee who turns down the employer’s health plan should sign a waiver documenting the choice. Waiving usually means waiting until the next open enrollment to join, unless a later qualifying life event triggers a special enrollment period.