Key Takeaways
- Ohio requires a minimum of 10 employees for employer-sponsored group life insurance without evidence of insurability
- Group life insurance must be provided to all eligible employees on a non-discriminatory basis
- Conversion rights allow employees to convert group coverage to individual policies upon termination
- The conversion period is 31 days from termination of group coverage
- Certificates of coverage must be provided to all insured group members
Ohio Group Life Insurance Requirements
Ohio has specific requirements for group life insurance policies to protect employees and ensure fair administration.
Eligible Groups
Ohio allows group life insurance for:
| Group Type | Minimum Size |
|---|---|
| Employer Groups | Generally 10+ employees |
| Labor Unions | As defined in policy |
| Associations | Organized for purposes other than insurance |
| Credit Groups | Debtors of a creditor |
| Multiple Employer Trusts | As approved by ODI |
Employer Group Requirements
Eligibility Standards
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Non-Discrimination | All eligible employees must be covered |
| Eligibility Definition | Clear criteria for eligibility |
| Waiting Period | Maximum waiting period limits apply |
| Evidence of Insurability | Limited or waived for eligible employees |
Coverage Amounts
Group life coverage may be based on:
- Salary multiples (1x, 2x, 3x annual salary)
- Position or class
- Flat amounts by category
- Years of service
Exam Tip: Coverage formulas must be non-discriminatory and applied consistently across eligible classes.
Certificate of Coverage
Ohio requires:
Certificate Requirements
Every insured employee must receive:
- Summary of coverage and benefits
- Premium contribution requirements (if any)
- Beneficiary designation instructions
- Claims procedures
- Conversion and portability rights
Conversion Rights
Ohio requires conversion privileges for terminated group members:
Conversion Period
| Element | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Timeframe | 31 days from termination |
| Notice | Employer must inform employee |
| Coverage Type | Individual policy without evidence |
| Amount | Up to group coverage amount |
When Conversion Applies
Employees have conversion rights when:
- Employment terminates
- Employee no longer meets eligibility
- Policy terminates for the class
- Dependent no longer qualifies
Conversion Limitations
| Limitation | Rule |
|---|---|
| Policy Type | Usually whole life only |
| Premium | At insurer's then-current rates |
| Amount Limits | May be capped |
| Pre-existing Conditions | No new exclusions |
Continuation of Coverage
Beyond conversion, some coverage may continue:
Situations for Continuation
- Leave of absence (FMLA, military)
- Disability (extended coverage periods)
- Retirement (if provided)
- Layoff (temporary continuation)
Premium Payment
Employer Contributions
| Arrangement | Description |
|---|---|
| Contributory | Employee pays portion of premium |
| Non-Contributory | Employer pays entire premium |
Non-Contributory Requirements
If employer pays 100% of premium:
- 100% of eligible employees must be covered
- No evidence of insurability typically required
- All eligible must receive same relative benefit
What is the typical minimum number of employees required for group life insurance without individual evidence of insurability in Ohio?
How long does an Ohio employee have to convert group life insurance to an individual policy after termination?
What document must Ohio employers provide to employees covered under group life insurance?
In a non-contributory group life plan in Ohio, who pays the premium?
When an employee exercises conversion rights in Ohio, what type of policy can they typically obtain?