Congratulations on your pregnancy! In the midst of doctor appointments and baby shopping, consider making three insurance moves. They help protect you, your baby and your family.
Three insurance moves to consider
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Reevaluate your health insurance benefits
Your current health insurance may cover pregnancy and childbirth. Qualified health plans are generally required to include maternity care and childbirth.
There are certain exclusions to watch for.
Possible exclusions
- Policies written before March 23, 2010 may exclude pregnancy or childbirth care.
- If you are under 26 and covered under a parent’s policy, that plan may not include maternity care.
- Some self‑insured employer plans may limit maternity or childbirth benefits.
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Buy or boost your life insurance coverage
Whether you plan to return to work or stay home after the baby arrives, life insurance helps replace lost income and covers everyday expenses and future needs.
To ensure adequate coverage, take these steps.
How to decide
- Use a life insurance calculator to estimate how much coverage you need—many guidelines suggest replacing eight to 10 times your annual salary.
- Compare term, whole and universal life policies to find an affordable fit.
- If you have employer coverage, consider buying a secondary private policy for extra protection.
- For lower rates, consider buying a policy during the first trimester; some conditions identified later in pregnancy can affect premiums or eligibility.
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Review your home and auto insurance
Adding a new family member might prompt a move or a vehicle change. Review your policies to ensure your coverage limits and protections match your needs.
Take these practical steps.
What to check
- Notify your insurance agent of any household changes, including renovations or changes in occupancy.
- Inventory new baby gear and any valuable heirlooms and include them in your homeowner’s inventory and coverage.
- Get auto insurance quotes for any vehicles you consider buying to confirm affordability.
- Compare quotes from multiple companies to find the best combination of price and coverage.
For related coverage options for expecting parents, see Maternity Shop Insurance and information about delivery and procedure coverage at Labor Procedures Insurance.
If you need help planning how to pay for care and benefits, review Payment and Funding Options to compare approaches.
Please discuss with an insurance agent to ensure you have the right coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my health insurance always cover prenatal care and delivery?
Many plans include maternity care, but coverage can vary by plan type and employer; check your policy details or ask your insurer for specifics.
When is the best time to buy life insurance during pregnancy?
Buying earlier in pregnancy—often in the first trimester—can result in better rates because some pregnancy-related conditions identified later may affect premiums or eligibility.
Do I need to add my newborn to my health insurance right away?
Most insurers require you to add a newborn within a set period after birth; contact your insurer promptly to meet enrollment deadlines.
Should I increase my homeowner's policy when I buy baby equipment?
Consider updating your homeowner’s inventory and coverage limits if you purchase significant new equipment or valuables to ensure adequate protection.