When I took my new job, I was entitled to health insurance Jan 1. Now, it is mid Feb and I still do not have it. I have written many emails to my HR dept, my boss, the director, etc and still do not have insurance. I was told since a new HR person was hired when I was hired that I fell through the cracks and that was supposed to be a good explanation. Meanwhile, here I am, cancelled my Cobra from my old job and sitting here with NO health, life, disability, etc.

I do not know where to go next, or why I do not have my benefits??? Also, what were to happen if I were to get sick right now, or I do have a dentist appt next week, can I back charge my employer?

Have you completed an application form? What reason has been given for why they have not picked you up?

In case you hadn't noticed, I work for a very very disorganized employer.

I first had to bring it up to my employers that during the hiring process I was told I was eligable Jan 1. They said they did not think I was correct.

During this time the HR manager and my hiring supervisor quit in some controversy. When the new HR manager was on board I started hounding her ASAP, and after she discovered I was correct here are different excuses I have heard:

"No one did this to you intentionally, it was a mistake."
"You must have fallen through the cracks between the former HR manager leaving and the new HR manager coming on board."

I have not seen a booklet, forms, or anything, but I did sign some form saying that I wanted the PPOM instead of the HMO, but even then I didn't know what I was signing, but that this was what determines my insurance, and the rates were not correct because she did not have the 2007 form. When I asked for any info and the insurance booklet, I was told that since she was new she had not received them and could not get them to me.

When I email my HR manager to ask the status (which I do twice a day) I get very vague responses. Why it is taking this long, as the process started Jan 30, I have no clue and I just get, "Corporate is taking their time, I don't know what is taking so long."

As of just today, I have been assured that my insurance is retro-active to Jan 1 when I do actually get it, but how does that help me now? I cannot retro-actively get an eye exam, or a dental cleaning?????

Is there anything I can do to make this right? Or to get the $372.00 I spent on Cobra for the month of Jan???

And what can I do to put more pressure on them to actually get me insurance cards now?

Also, are there any legal ramifications here?

The HR Manager is correct in that coverage would be retro active. You will be liable for the employee contributions as of 1/1/07. In the event you had/will use doctor services covered by your plan, you should be able to submit for reimbursement. Your benefits administrator should be able to provide you with the necessary forms.