(Helena) – The Montana State Auditor’s Office is warning residents to exercise caution before enrolling in “self-funded” limited partner health plans. State regulators say these plans are often marketed as comprehensive coverage but may not comply with the Affordable Care Act, leaving consumers personally responsible for large medical bills.
The Commissioner of Securities and Insurance, reports receiving numerous complaints from Montanans who believed they bought quality insurance, only to have their medical claims denied. Officials say these plans tempt buyers with low premiums but often only cover basic preventive care. Regulators warn that companies use terms like “limited partner” or “employee” specifically to bypass Montana’s consumer protection laws.
Red flags include salespeople claiming they don’t need a license, plans that seem abnormally cheap, or companies that delay paying claims. The state advises consumers to verify an agent’s license at csimt.gov before sharing personal information or payment. Legitimate individual ACA plans are only sold through licensed agents or the official healthcare.gov website. Anyone with questions can call the Insurance Consumer Service Bureau at 800-332-6148.
