To get a Certificate of Creditable Coverage from Blue Cross, your primary step is to directly contact your local Blue Cross and Blue Shield company.
What is a Certificate of Creditable Coverage?
A Certificate of Creditable Coverage is an official document issued by your health insurance provider that confirms the dates of your health coverage and whether that coverage was considered "creditable." This means the plan met specific standards set by Medicare (or other entities) regarding its actuarial value. It's especially important for:
- Medicare Part D Enrollment: If you delay enrolling in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan and don't have creditable prescription drug coverage from another source, you could face a late enrollment penalty. This certificate proves you had acceptable coverage.
- Avoiding Penalties: It helps demonstrate continuous coverage, which can be crucial when transitioning between health plans or avoiding penalties for gaps in coverage.
- Future Health Insurance Applications: It provides a verifiable history of your health insurance coverage.
Steps to Request Your Certificate from Blue Cross
Obtaining this certificate from Blue Cross involves a few straightforward steps:
1. Identify Your Local Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plan
Blue Cross and Blue Shield is a federation of 33 independent, locally operated companies. It's important to contact the specific company that provided your insurance coverage.
2. Contact Your Blue Cross Plan Directly
The most effective ways to request your Certificate of Creditable Coverage are:
- Check Your Member ID Card: The easiest way to find the correct contact information is by looking on the back of your member ID card. It typically contains a customer service phone number dedicated to your specific plan.
- Visit Their Official Website: You can also often find contact details, including phone numbers and online request forms, by visiting the "Contact Us" or "Member Services" section of your specific Blue Cross Blue Shield plan's official website. Many plans offer secure member portals where you can make such requests online.
3. Provide Necessary Information
When you contact them, be prepared to provide:
- Your full name and date of birth.
- Your member ID number.
- The dates of the coverage period for which you need the certificate.
- Your current mailing address or email address for delivery.
4. Allow Processing Time
Once requested, the certificate is usually mailed or emailed to you. The processing time can vary, so it's advisable to request it well in advance of any deadlines, such as those related to Medicare enrollment.
Important Tips for a Smooth Process
- Request Early: If you know you'll need the certificate for a specific deadline (e.g., during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period), request it several weeks beforehand.
- Keep Records: Always keep a copy of your Certificate of Creditable Coverage for your personal records, especially if you are transitioning to Medicare or another insurance plan.
- Understand Your Coverage: If you're unsure whether your past coverage was "creditable," the certificate itself will clarify this, or you can ask the Blue Cross representative.
