Timing is everything...

In email from UHC/Golden Rule (I'm still a bit confused on the branding), Vice President of Sales Susan Fowler has some news about that carrier's rate guarantees. Up 'til now, the default rate guarantee was 12 months; concerned buyers could opt to "buy up" to a 24 month lock-in. As with most carriers, that initial 12 month guarantee had a CYA clause: moving to a new area or changing benefits voided it (which makes sense).

As a result of ObamaCare©, though, the company has made some substantive changes to the underlying guarantee; those whose plans were effective on or after September 23rd will see no change (for now). But those whose plans pre-dated the 23rd are going to get hot with some unexpected "change:"

¦ They will receive additional health reform benefits as of 1/01/11.

¦ These customers will experience a rate change due to the additional benefits provided.

That's because, as we've pointed out before, even so-called "grandfathered" plans are not immune to some of the changes, which will necessarily result in higher rates (although how high is still not known).

But remember, "if you like your current plan..."

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