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December 28, 2020
Media Contact: Laura Hall, 517-290-3779, halll17@michigan.gov
Consumer Hotline: 877-999-6442, Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Dec. 28, 2020
(LANSING, MICH) Michigan businesses and consumers received more than $102 million in adjustments, refunds, or credits for health and dental insurance premiums this year following a bulletin issued in May by the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS). The bulletin provided guidance to insurance companies on passing on savings from reduced claims activity due to COVID-19 to Michigan businesses and consumers.
“These approved refunds and credits are putting money back into people’s pockets and are helping employers keep their doors open,” said DIFS Director Anita Fox. “DIFS remains committed to supporting Michigan’s financial recovery as we respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated economic crisis.”
In the bulletin, DIFS informed health and dental insurance companies of filing requirements for plans to issue premium credits or refunds, as appropriate, due to reduced claims during COVID-19. Those requirements included a detailed communication plan to inform policyholders about the refunds or credits, how they will be applied, and the timeframe during which the refund or credit will apply, and a description explaining how annual benefits will be addressed for individuals, such as well-baby visits, annual physicals, dental cleanings, mammograms, and more.
Today’s announcement includes previously announced health and dental filings, as well as recently approved filings for individual health plans. Filings received by DIFS show that 15 dental and 11 health insurance companies issued refunds or credits in 2020. For dental insurers, premium credits ranged from 10% to 100% per month for 1 to 6 months. For health insurers, the premium credits ranged from 5% to 30% per month for 1 to 6 months. Projected savings, based on insurer filings for individual, small, and large group policies, will be at least $39.8 million from dental insurers and between $62.7 and $72.1 million from health insurers, with the final health refunds dependent on final claims experience from the insurers.
“When we reviewed these filings, we worked to ensure that insurance savings are appropriately and consistently passed on to businesses and consumers.” said Fox. “If policyholders have questions or concerns about these refunds and how they will be applied, they should contact their insurer.”
DIFS has a consumer hotline to assist consumers with questions or disputes that cannot be directly resolved with their insurers. Contact DIFS Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 877-999-6442 or file a complaint at Michigan.gov/DIFScomplaints.
The mission of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is to ensure access to safe and secure insurance and financial services fundamental for the opportunity, security, and success of Michigan residents, while fostering economic growth and sustainability in both industries. In addition, the Department provides consumer protection, outreach, and financial literacy and education services to Michigan residents. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/DIFS or follow the Department on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn.
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