How to Cancel Ameritas Dental Insurance: A Comprehensive Guide

Navigating the world of insurance can feel like traversing a dense jungle, and canceling a policy is often perceived as the most perilous part of the journey. But fear not! This guide will serve as your compass, leading you through the process of canceling your Ameritas dental insurance with clarity and confidence.

The direct answer is this: To cancel your Ameritas dental insurance, you’ll typically need to contact Ameritas directly, either by phone or in writing, and provide them with your policy information and the date you wish your coverage to end. The specific method and requirements can vary depending on how you obtained the policy (through an employer, individually, or through an association). Let’s delve deeper into the process.

Understanding Your Ameritas Dental Insurance Cancellation Options

The first step is identifying the type of plan you have. Group plans sponsored by an employer will have different cancellation procedures than individual or family plans purchased directly from Ameritas or through a broker. The cancellation process also differs if you purchased your plan through an association, such as an alumni group or professional organization.

Canceling a Group Dental Insurance Plan (Employer-Sponsored)

If your dental insurance is part of your employer’s benefits package, canceling involves interacting with your HR department rather than contacting Ameritas directly.

• Notify Your HR Department: This is the crucial first step. Inform your HR representative of your intention to cancel your dental insurance. They will guide you through the company’s specific procedures.
• Understand the Timing: Cancellation typically coincides with your employer’s open enrollment period or a qualifying life event (e.g., loss of other coverage, marriage, birth of a child). Canceling outside these periods may not be possible.
• Complete Required Paperwork: Your HR department will provide the necessary forms to initiate the cancellation. Complete them accurately and promptly.
• Confirmation: Request confirmation from your HR department and potentially from Ameritas (through your HR) that the cancellation has been processed. Keep a copy of the confirmation for your records.

Canceling an Individual or Family Dental Insurance Plan

If you purchased your Ameritas dental insurance directly, the cancellation process is more direct, involving communication with Ameritas.

• Contact Ameritas Directly: The most effective way is to contact their customer service department. You can find their contact information on the Ameritas website or your insurance card. Be prepared to provide your policy number, name, address, and the desired cancellation date.
• Cancellation Methods:
  • Phone: Calling Ameritas allows for immediate interaction and clarification of any questions. Take notes of the conversation, including the representative’s name, date, and time of the call.
  • Written Notice (Mail or Email): Sending a written request provides a documented trail. Include all necessary information: policy number, name, address, desired cancellation date, and a brief explanation for the cancellation. A physical letter should be sent via certified mail with return receipt requested. Retain a copy of the email or letter.
• Understand Potential Penalties: Carefully review your policy documents for any cancellation fees or penalties, particularly if you are canceling before the end of your policy term.
• Confirmation: Always obtain written confirmation from Ameritas acknowledging the cancellation. This serves as proof of your request and protects you from potential billing issues.

Canceling Dental Insurance Obtained Through an Association

The cancellation process for dental insurance obtained through an association will vary depending on the association’s specific agreement with Ameritas. Contact your association directly to determine how to cancel your dental insurance.

Avoiding Common Cancellation Pitfalls

• Don’t Assume: Never assume that your dental insurance is automatically canceled when you switch employers or obtain new coverage. Actively initiate the cancellation process.
• Document Everything: Keep copies of all correspondence, forms, and confirmations related to the cancellation.
• Understand the Grace Period: Some policies offer a grace period after cancellation during which you can reinstate coverage. Know the terms of your policy’s grace period, should you need it.
• Avoid Lapses in Coverage: If you are switching to a new dental insurance plan, ensure that the new coverage begins before the old one is canceled to avoid any gaps in coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Canceling Ameritas Dental Insurance

Here are some frequently asked questions about canceling Ameritas dental insurance that will help guide you through the process.

1. What information do I need to cancel my Ameritas dental insurance?

You will typically need your policy number, your full name, your address, and the date you wish your coverage to end. Having your birth date and social security number on hand can also speed up the process and verify your identity.

2. Can I cancel my Ameritas dental insurance online?

While some insurance companies offer online cancellation, Ameritas typically requires you to contact them by phone or mail to cancel your policy. Check their website or call customer service for the most up-to-date information.

3. Is there a cancellation fee for canceling my Ameritas dental insurance?

Cancellation fees are not common with dental insurance, but it’s crucial to review your policy documents or contact Ameritas directly to confirm. Some plans might have penalties if you cancel mid-term, particularly if you received discounted rates or benefits.

4. What happens to my unused premiums if I cancel my Ameritas dental insurance?

If you cancel your policy before the end of the coverage period, you may be entitled to a refund of any unused premiums. Ameritas will typically calculate the refund based on the number of days remaining in your policy term.

5. How long does it take for my Ameritas dental insurance to be canceled after I submit my request?

The processing time can vary, but it usually takes a few business days to a couple of weeks for the cancellation to be finalized. Follow up with Ameritas if you don’t receive confirmation within a reasonable timeframe.

6. What if I want to reinstate my Ameritas dental insurance after I cancel it?

Reinstating a canceled policy is not always possible. Contact Ameritas to inquire about their reinstatement policy. You may need to reapply for coverage and be subject to new waiting periods or eligibility requirements.

7. Can my employer cancel my Ameritas dental insurance without my consent?

While your employer can change its benefits offerings, they cannot typically cancel your individual coverage within the plan without a valid reason, such as termination of employment or non-payment of premiums (if you contribute to the premium cost).

8. What if I move to a different state? Do I need to cancel my Ameritas dental insurance?

Whether you need to cancel your Ameritas dental insurance when you move depends on your plan’s coverage area. Contact Ameritas to confirm if your policy provides coverage in your new state. If not, you will need to cancel the policy and obtain new coverage in your new location.

9. What if I have outstanding claims? Should I wait to cancel my Ameritas dental insurance?

It’s generally advisable to wait until all pending claims have been processed and paid before canceling your dental insurance. Canceling beforehand could complicate the claims process.

10. How do I cancel my Ameritas dental insurance if the policyholder is deceased?

You will need to provide Ameritas with a copy of the death certificate and documentation proving you are the executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate. They will guide you through the specific steps required to cancel the policy and handle any potential refunds.

11. Can I cancel my Ameritas dental insurance if I’m not the policyholder?

If you are not the policyholder, you generally cannot cancel the policy unless you have power of attorney or other legal authority. The policyholder must initiate the cancellation.

12. What if I’m unhappy with Ameritas dental insurance and want to switch providers?

The best approach is to first research and select a new dental insurance provider. Once you have new coverage in place, follow the steps outlined above to cancel your Ameritas dental insurance. This ensures continuous coverage and avoids any gaps in benefits.