Eligibility Period

Definition of "Eligibility period"

Steve Hueter, Real Estate Agent Prime 220 Realty

Length of time in life and health insurance in which an employee can apply for and pay the first premium without having to show evidence of insurability (take a physical examination). The period is usually the first 30 days of employment. After expiration of the eligibility period, an employee may have to take a physical or provide medical history information to qualify for coverage. If the employee does not pass the physical, coverage can be denied under a group plan or the employee can be charged a much higher premium rate than the group rate. This is why it is extremely important for a new employee to apply for group life and health insurance during the eligibility period.