Are there any extensions to new group application deadlines?

Yes. Check the Carrier Responses section of our COVID-19 resource page for the latest information.

Are there any rate passes for upcoming renewals?

Yes. For employers with less than 500 employees and policy anniversary dates of May 1, 2020 through Aug. 15, 2020, there won’t be any rate increases at renewal.

Contact Claremont for more information.

Is there any extension available to the grace period for premium payments?

Yes. Principal understand this might be a financially challenging time. So they’re extending grace periods to 60 days for monthly bills through June 1, 2020. Plus, they’re actively monitoring grace period changes at a state level and will implement those requirements that have a grace period longer than 60 days. This is a rapidly changing situation. Principal will continue to monitor and adjust information. Contact Claremont for the latest information.

If an employer group has to temporarily close due to impacts from COVID-19, will its Principal coverage remain active?

Yes, coverage remains active through May 31, 2020, if the employer continues to pay premiums.

Learn more.

If employees are required to work a reduced schedule and no longer meet the minimum number of hours of eligibility in the policy, will they remain eligible for coverage and how long can they be covered?

Principal’s standard practice is to continue coverage until the end of the month. However, as an administrative exception due to impacts from COVID-19, any employee no longer eligible due to reduced hours or furlough/layoff on or after March 1, 2020, through May 31, 2020, may continue coverage for 90 days, provided premiums continue to be paid. For employees whose coverage terminates and are rehired within six months of the termination date, benefits are reinstated without a new hire waiting period..

Learn more.

Can a group downgrade off anniversary?

Please contact Claremont and we can assist with this process.